Dogwalker: Stories : Book Review

"Dogwalker" is a captivating collection of short stories penned by the talented Arthur Bradford. Each tale within this book introduces us to a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique quirks and personalities. Bradford's storytelling prowess shines through as he skillfully captures the intricacies of human emotions that make these stories so engaging. From the eccentric dog walkers to the heartwarming and hilarious encounters with animals, Bradford creates a world that is both familiar and surprising.

One of the standout stories in this collection is "Dog Story," which follows the journey of a young man who turns to dog walking as a means of livelihood. As he navigates the challenges of his job, the protagonist forms unexpected connections with the dogs and their owners, uncovering the hidden depths of their lives. Bradford's writing style is witty and entertaining, ensuring that the reader is thoroughly entertained from start to finish.

In "The Gold of Dogs," the author delves into the profound concept of loyalty and the unbreakable bond between humans and animals. Through a series of encounters with different dogs and their owners, Bradford explores the complex nature of these relationships, highlighting the moments of joy and complications they entail. The story is filled with both tender moments and absurd hilarity, making it a delight to read.

Bradford's ability to seamlessly blend humor and introspection is evident throughout the pages of "Dogwalker." Through his unique storytelling, he tackles subjects like grief, love, and solitude with remarkable grace. The stories in this collection are thought-provoking and often take surprising turns, captivating readers with their depth and unpredictability.

In conclusion, "Dogwalker" is a must-read collection that will leave readers feeling both delighted and contemplative. Arthur Bradford's imaginative and compassionate writing allows readers to explore and appreciate the profound connection between humans and animals. Whether you have a soft spot for dogs or simply appreciate well-crafted tales, this book is sure to captivate and enrich your reading experience.

What are readers saying?

Arthur Bradford's collection of short stories, "Dogwalker," has received a range of reactions from readers. On the positive side, some found the book refreshingly unique and captivating. They praised Bradford's ability to create bizarre and absurd scenarios that blend humor and melancholy. These thought-provoking and imaginative stories were appreciated for their unusual characters and unpredictable plot twists. Many readers were drawn to Bradford's witty and engaging writing style, highlighting moments of heartwarming and poignant storytelling that left a lasting impression.

However, there were also readers who felt that the stories in "Dogwalker" lacked depth and cohesion. They found the narratives disjointed, with abrupt endings or an unfinished feel in some cases. These readers struggled to connect with the characters and understand their motivations, hindering their full engagement with the book. Moreover, the absence of clear resolutions or satisfying conclusions in some stories disappointed certain readers.

Another criticism aimed at "Dogwalker" was the unsettling and disturbing nature of some of its content and themes. Instances of animal cruelty and dark subject matter proved challenging for some readers to enjoy. Additionally, some felt that certain stories dragged on or lacked purpose, leading to a diminished overall enjoyment of the collection.

Despite these mixed reviews, Arthur Bradford's "Dogwalker" was generally appreciated for its originality and ability to evoke a range of emotions in readers. Those who found the book captivating and thought-provoking praised its unconventional and unpredictable narratives. Meanwhile, readers who were less enthralled felt that the stories lacked depth and cohesion. Those who enjoy exploring unconventional and unpredictable narratives may find "Dogwalker" to be worth their time.