Dogland is a captivating and thought-provoking novel by Will Shetterly. Set in Florida, the story revolves around a struggling amusement park called Dogland, run by a family with dreams of creating a dog-themed paradise. However, their aspirations are threatened when their daughter, Chris, begins to experience inexplicable and unsettling events.
Chris, the protagonist, embarks on a journey of self-discovery, haunted by visions of a dog named King who becomes her guide. This mystical element adds depth and intrigue to the story as Chris learns to trust her instincts and embrace her unique abilities.
Shetterly's writing style is engaging and vivid, bringing the vibrant setting of Florida to life. The descriptions of Dogland and its attractions create a whimsical and nostalgic atmosphere, immersing the reader in this enchanting world. Additionally, the author tackles important issues such as animal rights and activism, providing a thought-provoking layer to the narrative.
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The ensemble cast of characters in Dogland is well-developed and relatable. Each family member faces their own personal challenges, contributing to the complexity of the plot. Shetterly portrays their relationships authentically, exploring the complexities of familial bonds and the sacrifices they entail.
Overall, Dogland is a captivating novel that seamlessly blends magical realism with a compelling family drama. Shetterly's storytelling talent shines through, creating a unique and memorable narrative. Readers who enjoy heartwarming stories about resilience, love, and the power of dreams will find this book to be a delightful and thought-provoking read.
What are readers saying?
"Dogland" by Will Shetterly has received a diverse range of reviews from readers. The book follows a family's journey to maintain their amusement park, Dogland, in rural Florida amid personal tragedies and conflicts.
Some readers were captivated by "Dogland," praising the author's skill in creating deep and relatable characters, particularly the protagonist, Chris. They found the exploration of themes like love, loss, and the bond between humans and animals to be resonant. These readers appreciated Shetterly's vivid portrayal of the amusement park and its surroundings, which breathed life into the story.
However, there were readers who felt that the plot of "Dogland" was slow-paced and lacked focus, making it difficult for them to stay engaged. Some found the frequent shifts in perspective and time periods confusing, affecting their connection with the narrative. Furthermore, a few readers were disappointed with the book's resolution, feeling that certain storylines were unresolved or abruptly concluded, leaving them with unanswered questions. They also mentioned that the writing style could be excessively descriptive and dense, posing a challenge at times.
Despite these mixed reviews, "Dogland" has received praise for its depiction of the bond between humans and animals. Many readers found the book's emphasis on the healing power of animals and the importance of empathy and understanding to be noteworthy.
In conclusion, "Dogland" by Will Shetterly has sparked a range of reactions from readers. While some found it to be a captivating and immersive read, others struggled with its pacing, structure, and resolution. Ultimately, whether or not this book will resonate with readers depends on personal preferences for storytelling style and subject matter.
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