Max - The Dog That Refused to Die: & Pepper's Ordeal

What would you do if you went on vacation and your dog disappeared? Just disappeared into nowhere. First here, then gone. What would you do if you were a dog and endured a terrible calamity, resulting in horrible injuries and near starvation? This is the story of a family, a dog, and how the two got back together. It is the story of survival, endurance, abiding love, and a will to live. It is heart-rending, but not heart-breaking. The complete title hints to the reader how the story closes. George and Kyra Wayne host two children of friends from Mexico for the summer to enhance their English speaking skills. The two boys, Carlos and Francisco, become an integral part in nursing Max the Doberman back to health and wellness. Also present when Max disappears, the boys share in the heartbreak of not finding him for three long weeks. A published writer at the time of this unhappy episode, Mrs. Wayne determined to write Max's story for several reasons. One, it is an incredible story of survival; a second, two children participated in his recovery, learning that life can reverse itself after a tragedy. Another reason is learning the role of dogs in the healing process for people. A psychiatrist, George takes Max to work to watch over him during his recovery time. His patients bond with Max because of the "broken-ness" they feel in themselves. And the most important reason, Mrs. Wayne wanted to show the value of life and how many people share that belief, from the young woman who found Max, the huge clinic that attended Max for two weeks, and the family who so loved Max they were willing to do anything to honor his life by keeping him alive. "Max: the dog who refused to die" is a wondrous story of canine courage, the survival instinct, and loyalty and love that humans and animals can share. What an inspiring story on many levels! (My copy does not include the second story. I had to choose it in order to have a picture in the review.) Dedicated to Linda Bulger, a big-time dog lover.

I read this book as a little girl (I think it might have come from some kind of book club) in the late '70's/ early '80's and the power of the story has stayed with me since then. This is a wonderful and moving tale of a dog who faces incredible odds and a potentially life-threatening injury to try and find his family. It's a wonderful story for kids, for doberman lovers, and dog lovers. A bit of a tear-jerker at times, but well worth it!