This is more an episodic scrapbook than a novelesque narrative arc. Entries’ structures vary occasionally with a comedic haiku, frequent Special Reports, and weekly stats like, “Ribs I almost snatched off the counter: 3.” Finn is, undoubtedly, the book’s selling point. Photos for each post show him with a cone around his head, or looking yearningly at a tennis ball stuck under the bed, or wearing new outfits his people have made for him.
The humor and personality Romack gives Finn will appeal to readers of all ages. Humor ranges from highbrow to low: Finn describes certain training as “my 6th ring of Hell (Yes, dogs read Dante too),” but also boasts, “5 deuces in one walk!!” As Finn says, “Sometimes I like to throw the hoomans a bone to keep them feeling positive.” And this charming diary is a lighthearted escape that will put a smile on dog lovers’ faces.
Takeaway: This light and joyous collection of a dog’s weekly updates will amuse and comfort readers looking for relatable humor about the abrupt and daily starts and changes of training a new dog.
Great for fans of: Matthew Inman’s My Dog: The Paradox, E.B. White’s E.B. White on Dogs, Maira Kalman’s Beloved Dog.
Production grades
"You MUST purchase this book! Funny, touching and poignant. Finn’s never ending journey to train his hoomans is a delightful read. Highly recommended!"
"I first came across The Finn Chronicles as a series of Facebook posts and was immediately hooked. I don't use Facebook for much, but reading Finn's updates was something my whole family grew love. Gwen's is a fantastic writer, and has a gift for translating Finn's world into a hilarious soliloquy, as he reports on his daily life, rituals, food explorations, adventures and temper tantrums. You will quickly fall in love with this bold, moody, opinionated dog & his wonderful people. It's a must read for any dog lover!"
"Finn's weekly letters back to the K9 Academy are hilarious and a must read. Follow him as he does his best to train his rescue hoomans, with sometimes unexpected and less than stellar results. Every week is a new adventure and not to be missed. While reading his adventures, I have more than a few times spit out my favorite drink and rolled on the floor laughing my head off. If you pass this book up, you are missing a rollicking good read."
"The Finn Chronicles is a wonderful documentary of first year stories told through the eyes of Finn (of course cleverly narrated via the author). Finn (or his ghost writer :)) has an amazing ability to share the highs and lows of his adventures; from rescue dog to rescuer. The author has a beautiful storytelling ability and her hash game is totally on point. I enjoyed reading about his stories—and a perfect distraction to the heaviness of the times."
"I have to start by saying I do not own a dog and never have. I have been following the Finn Chronicles from the beginning and have laughed, sometimes got teary eyed and just plain loved it all. I may be crazy but the only word I keep saying is this is the most HANDSOME dog I have ever seen. His expressions are more HOOMAN than the hoomans. His videos are priceless. Whether you are a dog lover or not ... this book is a must. You will be entertained from beginning to end. Love you Finn ❤️"
"I can’t even tell you how much I love this book. It’s a breath of fresh air in today’s world. Finn is hilarious. I am trying to figure out what his human voice would be in my head. Something sharp and sarcastic and droll! This is THE STORY TO READ IF YOU HAVE EVER THOUGHT OF RESCUING A PUP! It’s a feel good read. Finn and his humans need a spot on the Ellen DeGenerous show!"
"Such a fun escape. So much fun! Light-hearted and entertaining. Easy to pick up and read a quick chapter but funny enough to keep reading! The pictures are the best 🙂. Recommend to anyone who has a soft spot for furry friends. 🐕🦮🐕🦺"
"An endearing story from Finn about his “”hoomans” on his journey from foster through adoption and beyond. Such a light-hearted enjoyable read! This is the perfect gift for any dog lover."
"Don't have to be a dog lover. Hilariously great read! Made family reading a daily habit. This book has something for everyone, pics and videos are a great bonus for the littlest to enjoy along side the readers. Cannot wait for the 2nd book to be released!"
"Loved how much they understand dogs. Recently lost our pup & this helped heal the hurt. Thoroughly enjoyed life through a dog’s perspective."
"Calling all dog lovers. With the Finn Chronicles, not only will you laugh out loud, your heart will melt as Finn tells his tales about the hoomans he loves - and who adore him. You'll be absolutely charmed."
