BEST FRIENDS MAGAZINE BOOK REVIEW (May/June 2013 issue)

By Sally Rosenthal

     The name Allen Anderson, author of A DOG NAMED LEAF, will no doubt be familiar to many Best Friends readers. With his wife Linda, Anderson has compiled a number of Angel Animals anthologies and shared stories of how animals have spiritually touched people's lives.

     Now, with this quietly magnificent memoir, Allen and Linda Anderson tell a story of their own about how a vulnerable and ill man and an emotionally scarred shelter dog came together to heal one another.

     Following the death of their beloved Labrador, Taylor, the couple found themselves at a shelter with the hope of finding another canine to add to their animal family.

      Although he wasn't entirely certain he could open his heart to another dog as much as he had with Taylor, Allen felt drawn to a black cocker spaniel who had been dumped from a motorcycle in the shelter's parking lot.

      When Leaf, as the cocker came to be called, went home with the Andersons, he displayed many of the behaviors common to traumatized dogs, but he also began to trust and, at a critical time, teach Allen how to cope with life's tragedies and second chances.

      Several months after adopting Leaf, Allen developed a brain aneurysm and underwent risky surgery. During his long recovery, he came to realize just how similar the life paths were that he and Leaf had traveled, and how healing often comes through unexpected, but divine, intervention.

"Thank so much for writing A DOG NAMED LEAF! Very well written! I felt like I was talking to a friend while I read it. Brought up some very thoughtful points about our human animal bond and how closely we are connected if we only take the time to experience and acknowledge it!"

--Linda Miller, Amazon Review, April 2, 2013

"Great book! I enjoyed the book [A DOG NAMED LEAF]. The book relates on how the relationship between dog and human can help each other through trying times. Glad they helped each other."

--John Cudnohufsky (Green Bay, WI United States), Amazon Review, March 30, 2013

"A touching story [A DOG NAMED LEAF] about the human/animal bond. The story of the love between Leaf and Allen is one we never tiring of reading about. If we didn't have dogs, cats and other critters to care for, our lives would be bleak, indeed. That Leaf and Allen met when they did seems almost fated. Who can say how exactly this love between a man and his dog works, but aren't we glad it does? Thanks, Allen and Leaf for sharing your beautiful story. I wish you great health and long life!"

--Rosie Sorenson, Amazon Review, March 27, 2013

"This book is amazing! This book is awesome even if i'm on the second chapter!"

--P, Barnes and Noble Book Review, February 3, 2013

"I loved this book. It highlights something I've always believed, that there is far more going on in the mind of a dog than most people think. It's a terrific book for anyone that's ever had a rescue dog and knows the problems and pitfalls along that path, as well as the reward that awaits when you give your heart completely to a new dog. Allen Anderson's journey with Leaf is a wonderful story and I'm very happy that he chose to share it with us."

--TyWilsonSLC, Barnes and Noble Review, January 27, 2013

"Bravo----I was right there with Allen( Author) and Leaf all the way -- This journey of Love compassion trust courage patience and persistence was a wonderul testament to Soul to Soul connections and jouneys of growth and fullfillment

--Barnes and Noble Book Review, December 19, 2012

"Must Read & Great Gift - A dog's growing trust as a man's life changes! Allen and Linda Anderson out did themselves as they shared the intimate story of their lives with the world. The story intertwines the trust built between Allen and Leaf, a frightened dog as Allen faced potentially life-changing health issues.  I couldn't put the book down. The turn of each page I felt the love grows between Allen and Leaf. Thank you for sharing how Leaf overcame fear with the growing bond with Allen. Four paws up!"

--Elaine of Minneapolis, Barnes and Noble Book Review, November 20, 2012

 “It [A Dog Named Leaf] was very interesting, and I enjoyed the reading and stories very much.”

--Kate Kahlert-Dolnick

 “My copy of A Dog Named Leaf arrived before going to Mexico and I so enjoyed reading it on the beach. I will be doing a blog post about it soon. Fantastic book!”

--Lisa Taron, February 9, 2013

"This enriching portrait [A DOG NAMED LEAF] will have you looking at that four-legged, Velcro mate alongside you with soulful appreciation. If so, Leaf’s legacy should read: Seize the moment, cherish the memories and reaffirm your commitment to provide quality-of-life care forever."

--Ranny Green, "Picks of the Litter", Seattle Kennel Club, www.seattledogshow.org/a-dog-named-leaf-the-hero-from-heaven-who-saved-my-life/

"A DOG NAMED LEAF reminds me of a dog in our rescue named Jackson. He came to us as an outdoor dog and was an unpredictable biter. After a vet diagnosed him with an eye condition called dry eye, we treated him with daily drops. After just a few days, he became a loving happy dog and went on to a great permanent home. Dry eye is a very painful condition and the poor guy must have been suffering for a long time. Many times we find that biting means the dog is in pain. This dog taught us much and we were blessed to have him in Blue Sky Rescue."

--Kim Cook, Founder of Blue Sky Rescue

With our crazy schedule, sometimes it takes planning to make sure interviews about our new book A DOG NAMED LEAF go smoothly. Last Sunday (March 31, 2013), Allen had to find a mini-office at the Philadelphia airport where he could have a quiet space for calling in for a radio interview. He was in-between flights and squeezing in the interview before boarding the next plane.

Meanwhile in Minneapolis, Linda sat in a comfortable chair at the WCCO Radio (local CBS affiliate) studio to also be part of the interview. Normally we can take visual cues from each other about which of us would be best to answer questions. This time, we relied on the host to ask questions directly to each of us.

Even with the obstacles, it was fun to talk about our relationship with the amazing and incredible dog Leaf who changed and healed our lives in so many ways. Host Roshini Rajkumar was wonderful and as Linda says, even more beautiful in person -- inside and outside.

If you would like to listen to the interview, visit WCCO's News and Views with to hear it.  The website is minnesota.cbslocal.com/audio-on-demand/news-and-views  Click on "3-31-13 - News and Views: 1PM Hour" to listen to our segment. The interview is about 19 minutes into the hour.

What would you say about your pet if you were doing a radio interview?

A Dog Named Leaf

Reviews:

"Part Marley and Me and part Jon Katz... the story is endearing, and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball in south Minneapolis are adorable."

--Laurie Hertzel, "The Browser" MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE

"A Dog Named Leaf is a beautiful story told with honesty and depth. You'll be changed by Allen and Leaf's journey. This book will fill you with hope."

--Peggy Frezon, Brooks Books, Peggy's Pet Place

Allen says, “Thanks to a loving, intuitive, paper-chewing pup, I am alive and well today.”

--National Examiner, as told to L.A. Justice, December 17, 2012

"Take a break from life’s drama and venture into a world of Leaf, a rescued dog who have changed a couple’s life. Find out how rewarding adopting a dog can be, regardless of how impossible he may seem to take care of at first. Get the book [A Dog Named Leaf] and be inspired."

--WHiMZ News, November 8, 2012

"I truly found a kindred spirit in Allen and Linda.  They believe, as I do, that we should always view our animal companions with respect and appreciation.  Because when you look into the eyes of an animal, what you will discover is a spiritual SOUL that is experiencing this lifetime as your dog, or cat, or horse.  For those of us who have witnessed and been forever blessed by an animal’s love, this if for you!  Enjoy."

--Val Heart & Friends, November 2012

“The author of a series of animals books has written about the healing said he experienced with the help of an emotionally scarred adopted dog.”

--Sun-Sailor, November 29, 2012

"If you've ever doubted animals have souls, this book will open your heart and mind to truly believing we are all connected. You will never doubt again. Your life will be enriched far beyond what you could have ever imagined and you will have author Allen Anderson to thank for it. A Dog Named Leaf is a great gift idea for the dog loving friends and family in your life!"

--Barbara Techel, Joyful Paws

"...The authorial voice is distinctly Allen's. In 2006, Allen learns that he has an unruptured brain aneurysm, seven months after the family adopts a black cocker spaniel, Leaf, from a shelter. Throughout, he clearly conveys the affection that he and his dog have for each other and how that affection proved crucial to his recovery from brain surgery..."

--PUBLISHER'S WEEKLY, September 24, 2012

"This touching, almost lyrical book [A Dog Named Leaf] is a very personal story bravely told by the author and his wife...  This is a lovely story that will uplift anyone who has ever loved a dog."

--Amy Shojai, About.com Guide, December 27, 2012

"...The story is about Allen and the dog’s healing process and how they helped each other.  In the Epilogue Allen writes about his and Leaf’s relationship, 'We are two souls who entered each other’s lives when we most needed the healing power of a human-animal friendship.'"

--Heidi Skarie, Blue Star Visions, November 25, 2012

"This is a story about the marvelous bond between humans and dogs as well as the healing power of love, which can truly make miracles."

--CosmoDoggyLand Dog Magazine, November 2012

"Allen gives all animal lovers a gem in 'A Dog Named Leaf - The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life.'"

--Wendy Garrett, Conscious Living

"Allen's writing draws the reader into peak moments of challenge and choice in the life of both Leaf and himself, as a family. It is a rare glimpse into the deep workings of spirit through our animal human love bonds. It is one of the best examples of how we need one another to heal and that the commitment to love through all things brings forth the magic of miracles."

--Donna Strong, Awareness Magazine

"Part 'Marley and Me' and part Jon Katz... the story is endearing, and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball in south Minneapolis are adorable.""

-- Laurie Hertzel, "The Browser" Minneapolis Star Tribune

"I've fallen in love with Leaf! I thoroughly enjoyed this story of a cute little dog's journey from a troubled past to a loving relationship with his new master, a relationship that carried his master through the perils of brain surgery. Allen Anderson has portrayed him with humor and love. The photos scattered among the pages confirm the verbal picture of him as an adorable little pooch.

“This is a story of Leaf's abrupt abandonment by former owners, his transition into the Anderson's loving household, his troubled behavior, his gradual healing, Allen's discovery of a life threatening aneurism, his profoundly human concerns in the days leading up to the dangerous surgery, and the special part Leaf played in Allen's dreams to reassure him of the outcome.

“The book glows with love, the love of one soul for another, no matter that they occupy different body forms. It provoked laughter, sympathy, and compassion. I'm so glad I read it!"

--Kenneth J. Lucas "Ken Lucas" (Chanhassen, MN USA), Amazon.com reviewer

"I loved this book so much I had to have Allen and Linda Anderson as guests on The Real Dr. Doolittle Podcast Show With Val Heart. Allen and Linda are so passionate about their love for animals and the miracles they truly are. Their work is focused on the nature and essence of spirituality and the lessons that animals teach us. This book touched my heart and inspired me. You won't be able to put it down!"

--Val Heart (San Antonio, TX, USA), Amazon.com reviewer

"A Dog Named Leaf is an intimate accounting of a Man (Allen) facing a life threatening health issue and his Dog (Leaf) who in his own struggles of abandonment and rescue builds a bond of trust and love with his new owner. When Allen finds out he needs surgery he realizes his "friend" Leaf is there every step of the way. Allen watches Leaf re discover the world as he builds trust in his new surroundings and with his new owners. (a difficult thing to do when you've been cast aside by previous loved ones) The comical antics of Leaf lend humor and spiritual understanding to many everyday experiences that both Leaf and Allen are going through. This book is a very quick read because you become so involved in the true life characters. You can't wait to see how it all turns out."

--Donna Owner, Pet Grooming by Donna, Amazon.com reviewer

"This is a beautiful book and I loved learning about the relationship between Allen and Leaf. I bought several copies to give as gifts for Christmas! Very heartwarming tale. "

--Heather Renae, Amazon.com reviewer

"The most difficult part of writing a review about "A Dog Named Leaf" is resisting the temptation to share some of the many priceless moments to be found in this wonderful book. Allen and Leaf share a spiritual journey which takes both of them through very tough times - Leaf, an abandoned and badly disturbed but amazing puppy, and Allen, a man filled with uncertainty as he faces a health crisis which could end his earthly life. The parallel suffering and healing these two guys go through really opened my heart - and it will yours as well."

--Daniel Tardent, Amazon.com reviewer

"Allen and Linda Anderson out did themselves as they shared the intimate story of their lives with the world. The story intertwines the trust built between Allen and Leaf, a frightened dog as Allen faced potentially life-changing health issues. I couldn't put the book down. Each page the love grows between Allen and Leaf. Thank you for sharing how Leaf overcame fear and the growing bond with Allen. Four paws up!"

--Minneapolis reader (Minneapolis, MN USA), Amazon.com reviewer

"A wonderful book about the unconditional love between canine and human. I was able to vicariously experience the relationship between Leaf and his humans and felt drawn into the emotions of the frightful medical situation through the eyes of both humans and canine."

--Doggiemom7701, Amazon.com reviewer

"I know Allen and Linda. This is such a personal account of what could have been so tragic. I am so anxious to meet Leaf at a local booksigning. He is a gift from God with tender loving paws."

--Animal Lover, Amazon.com reviewer

"I love Leaf, Allen, and Linda. This book is so beautifully written. I couldn't put it down. Allen is so brave to have shared his journey to health with us. Leaf is truly an amazing dog (Soul). I would recommend this book to anyone. I was inspired to look at all pets, including my cat Angel, with even more respect and insight into their ability to help their humans be more open to love and guidance."

--Sheila B, Amazon.com reviewer

"I received a complimentary copy of "A dog named Leaf" from the authors. It is a compelling, engaging, mesmerizing true story. Abandoned, then dumped at an animal rescue shelter, and finally adopted by the Anderson family, Leaf overcomes his distrust, and fears, and is transformed into a survivor, faithful friend and master strategist, according to Author Allen Anderson. This book is packed with day to day, moment to moment experiences between Allen, Linda and Leaf, demonstrating the animal-human spiritual bond. The similarities between the challenges both Leaf and Allen face are astounding. Together they move on, learning, discovering, healing, and helping each other to "brush off the dust of past failures and lapses in judgment, get back up, and be in the present." (pp205.)

The "Building of Life" dream experience and Leaf's "ticket for Allen" solution is profound and almost beyond belief. Allen was diagnosed with an unruptured brain aneurysm and......, but wait, I am revealing too much. You can read the rest in the book. Just before I wrote this review, a breaking news item blazed across our television screen, here at home. Another dog, Duke, also adopted from an animal rescue shelter, saved the life of a baby. In her sleep, the infant had stopped breathing. It was around 3:am in the morning. Duke, awakened the parents, pouncing on their bed, barking incessantly until they followed him to the baby. Paramedics summoned to the house, were able to revived the baby. She is okay. "How did the dog know?" my husband asked in wonder. I answered, "The spiritual bond between Duke and the family who saved him. It's like the bond between Leaf and Allen. Something about unconditional love and animal communication. The Andersons are on to something. The bond is real. It's explained right here in this book, 'A Dog named Leaf." My husband is now reading my copy of the book.

Well written. Highly recommended."

--Dorothy Weiss (ORLANDO, FLORIDA United States , Amazon.com reviewer

“Oh I just loved your beautiful book Allen and Linda. And of course I am a devotee of this very handsome canine Leaf. Your story is so engaging and inspiring. Thanks for allowing others into your life on such a personal level; I’m confident your story will help others in countless ways.”

--Beth Faint Gedatus

"This is a wonderful book that shares the personal life struggles and loving support between a dog and his family. Written with honesty, humor, introspection and warmth. I have purchased several to share with dear friends as it has touched me deeply!"

--Betty Redfield (Syracuse, NY, US), Amazon.com review

"I loved this book. It highlights something I've always believed, that there is far more going on in the mind of a dog than most people think. It's a terrific book for anyone that's ever had a rescue dog and knows the problems and pitfalls along that path, as well as the reward that awaits when you give your heart completely to a new dog. Allen Anderson's journey with Leaf is a wonderful story and I'm very happy that he chose to share it with us."

--Ty Wilson, Goodreads.com review

"I was thoroughly engaged by this story of mutual healing. Cocker Spaniel Leaf came into Allen's life at just the right time. As Leaf helps Allen deal with anxieties about his upcoming brain surgery, Allen gently helps Leaf transform from a fearful dog to a friendly, confident and happy companion. Lovely true tale."

--Peggy Frezon, Goodreads.com review

"By far the best book I have read in the last couple of months. In my opinion a must read for all."

--Pam Anderson

"Read the book with my wife. It is a very touching and insightful story about a spiritual relationship between a man and his dog. It goes beyond expectations. After reading this book, I wish I could meet Leaf."

--John Houlgate

"What a great story! I have had rescue dogs in my family, and I absolutely fell in love with Leaf. I am from the area and recognized the names of places and people; I have also had Mary Stoffel do readings for me. Now I pass this book to my friend who adopted a black cocker spaniel within the last year."

--Darlinda Alexander

"5 out of 5 stars. Transcends the pet-animal story genre by leaps and bounds. I finished this book in two sittings. It's a page-turner. It's about every day life in its most usual aspects -- making a living and partnering your spouse. But it's also about how the past weaves seamlessly with the future to make you whole. It's also about life and death -- enduring a life-threatening illness and having to go way beyond preconceived limits of patience and stamina."

--Barbara Buckner, Amazon.com reviewer

"You will think I would be biased as I am one of the animal communicators mentioned in the book A Dog Named Leaf. I can tell you that I expected a nice story, but I couldn't put the book down. The trials so honestly written by the author will touch your heart. The story of Leaf's journey and healing will amaze you, not too heavy, there's humor, but it's a journey which will inspire you and touch your heart at the courage, love and experiences of the author and his wonderful dog. It's very special."

--Marcia, Amazon.com reviewer

"It takes courage to share your story. I also think to share the deep love of a pet takes courage. The fact that Allen, being a man, shares his deepest fears and also his amazing love for Leaf makes this book truly inspiring. We've heard many stories of the connection between women and dogs, or children and pets, but to hear Allen share his deepest thoughts and biggest fears, as well as, his devotion and love for Leaf touched me deeply. As I read the last page of his book I wanted to weep. I wanted to weep for those that never experience a connection like Allen and Leaf have. I wanted to weep in happiness for Allen and his recovery. I wanted to weep for the courage it took for Allen to share this remarkable story that some may find hard to believe at times. But I know it is real as I've experienced some profound moments with my own dogs, just like Allen has with Leaf. If you've ever doubted animals have souls, this book will open your heart and mind to truly believing we are all connected. You will never doubt again. Your life will be enriched far beyond what you could have ever imagined and you will have author Allen Anderson to thank for it."

--Barbara Techel "Author of Frankie the Walk 'N... (Elkhart Lake, WI), , Amazon.com reviewer

" A Dog Named Leaf truly touched my heart. Allen helps us to see that there is so much more going on in our relationships with our animal companions. I hope it will help others to be more aware of this incredible love bond between Souls and to also help us respect one another more. THANK YOU Allen! I love this book! Great for all who have dogs or anyone who has furry or feathered friends!"

--Misha's Mom, Amazon Review of A Dog Named Leaf

"I thoroughly enjoyed A Dog Named Leaf, couldn't put it down, have given it as a gift, and highly recommend it! I was touched by how Allen and Leaf were brought together in order to help each other heal from both physical and emotional wounds. Throughout the book, Allen recognizes and shares the spiritual growth opportunities he receives through his deep love bond with Leaf. As a love relationship coach, I also enjoyed references to Allen's relationship with his wife, Linda. Allen shows how people respond differently to crises and the value in understanding the other's perspective."

--Lyndra H. Antonson, Amazon.com reviewer

"I loved this book. It highlights something I've always believed, that there is far more going on in the mind of a dog than most people think. It's a terrific book for anyone that's ever had a rescue dog and knows the problems and pitfalls along that path, as well as the reward that awaits when you give your heart completely to a new dog. Allen Anderson's journey with Leaf is a wonderful story and I'm very happy that he chose to share it with us."

--Christopher Wilson (Salt Lake City, Utah United States)

"This is a wonderful book that shares the personal life struggles and loving support between a dog and his family. Written with honesty, humor, introspection and warmth. I have purchased several to share with dear friends as it has touched me deeply!"

--Betty Redfield (Syracuse, NY, US), Amazon.com reviewer

"It was a wonderful book. I recommend it to any animal lover, be they cat or dog. Leaf and his dad are special people."

--Nancy C. Miller (Prescott, AZ, USA), Amazon.com reviewer

"A Dog Named Leaf" touched my heart deeply. It showed how the qualities of love patience persistence surrender and trust----were developed in 2 Souls who were in each others life. It showed how they developed a relationship of great blessings to each other. The animal/ human bond was so beautifully demonstrated---I fell in love with Leaf. I admired the journey of each--I highly recommend this book."

--Robin Houlgate, Amazon.com reviewer

"What an amazing personal story! I couldn't put the book down. This heart opening adventure will help so many people. I learned more about how to reach the inner depths of listening to my own dog, soul to soul. I appreciated understanding more about police work from the inside out, and how to prepare for going to the hospital to deal with critical illness. I loved the part about dog groomers at the end, and the very important gift of service that they provide. My dog groomer cried when I gave her a copy of the book. I think she felt the love coming from the book! I was so inspired after reading Allen Anderson's book, that I immediately ordered 5 more copies to give away to friends and family. A Dog Named Leaf is a must read!!!"

--Maureen Dixon, Amazon.com reviewer

"Praise to the authors for so honestly sharing their personal journey with Leaf. I laughed. I cried. I pondered the deeper meaning behind the relationships with my own canine companions. More than a who rescued who story....so much more."

--Sandy , Amazon.com reviewer

An insightful exploration of love in a time of great stress, February 6, 2013

By Gary Foster

This review is from: A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life (Paperback)

I was greatly moved by this book. It is a gutsy move to expose one's fears and feelings in a life or death situation. Maybe because I'm a guy, I'd be quite reluctant to reveal too much about something as scary and personal as the author's experience, you know, stiff upper lip and all that.

The link with an abused rescue dog however, makes this more than just the tale of a personal journey. It provides a fascinating higher viewpoint to an already life changing experience. Facing a possible sudden death is enough to consume most people's attention completely. Allen demonstrates the literally life giving effects of reaching out in a time of great stress to give love another soul when most of us would be totally, and not unreasonably, self absorbed.

Ever met a dog who ran for president?

By D. E. Munson, Author

This review is from: A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life (Paperback)

How about an undersized, pure black, curly-haired, handholding alpha spaniel with an Elvis lip and a penchant for holding you up to a mirror? Or maybe one who helps you find purpose, gratitude, and your ticket to life? If not, you've got to meet Leaf.

Allen Anderson, former policeman and author of this book, lays bare his Soul and shares his life-and-death professional and personal adventures with such unimaginable courage and humility that you shiver and smile simultaneously. His hero, incidentally, is an undersized, pure black, curly-haired, handholding alpha spaniel with an Elvis lip . . .

To say this book is well written is an understatement. To describe the wisdom you ingest when you devour Leaf's and Allen's insights and incredible experiences is nearly impossible. It reaches into areas you were likely afraid to explore.

I, from my heart, encourage you to do it anyway.

D. E. Munson, Author of By The Time I Got To Woodstock

Pets and people, an undeniably vital bond, February 18, 2013

By C. Korpi (Minneapolis, MN)

This review is from: A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life (Paperback)

I learned a long time ago that our animal companions often serve as our most valuable teachers of life's most important lessons. In his book "A Dog Named Leaf," Allen Anderson poignantly illustrates this phenomenon when he shares the deeply personal story of his terrifying journey through a life-threatening health crisis of his own and how allowing a seemingly "damaged" rescue dog into his world around then gave him the insight and strength to get through this trying time.

I, too, adopted a rescued dog with "issues." Just as Anderson did, I have watched my Westie's struggles to maintain a sense of security in a world that had shown him nothing but uncertainty, instability and rejection. As was the case with Leaf, his fears made him his own worst enemy, causing him to mask his fears with aggression. As Leaf and Anderson bonded ever-more deeply, Leaf underwent a profound change. Seeing his sweet cocker spaniel's unique personality, courage and trust emerge despite having the odds stacked against him no doubt bolstered Anderson when his own life was in the balance.

This book is written in the clear, honest, approachable style of someone whose heart is open to sharing with others a glimpse of himself at his most vulnerable. That kind of human courage is equivalent to Leaf's transformation from a terrified pup into a dog with a big job to do in this lifetime, namely to save his two-legged father's spiritual life and thus his physical life as well. Together, they found ways to deeply appreciate living in the moment, rejoicing in the little things so often overlooked.

These are lessons we all need to be reminded of, and here we have Allen Anderson and Leaf to thank for helping us all to be sure to make the most of our own lives and relationships.

--Sid Korpi, author of "Good Grief: Finding Peace After Pet Loss"

A DOG NAMED LEAF is a moving story of a real family, with real challenges who had an amazing experience when they adopted a little Cocker Spaniel.

This is a well written, and touching story I highly recommend. People who question a dog’s ability to connect with their humans, on an emotional level, may well be persuaded to take another look at that question. Allen & Linda Anderson make a compelling case for believing. Their rescue of Harley (renamed Leaf) does not over time appear to be just a random happenstance. Instead, it was a meeting and relationship that was “meant to be”.

When life threw Allen Anderson a huge medical curve ball, LEAF was right there for the entire journey. Not only that, but Leaf was the only being Allen often felt he could express himself to during some of his darker times.

--Chazz's Literary Corner -- Book Review

"I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book. I have read so many books about how a dog saved the human owner from depression/loneliness/alcoholism/ etc. that the theme has almost become a cliché and the books often lapse into sentimentality. A Dog Named Leaf is anything but a cliché. It is a beautifully written, carefully edited book filled with love, humor and spirituality with photos of Leaf scattered throughout..."

--Jan Williams, The Poodle (& dog) Blog, March 3, 2013

http://thepoodleanddogblog.typepad.com/the_poodle_and_dog_blog/2013/03/a-dog-named-leafa-book-review.html

Allen and Linda Can Help You Write and Publish Your Animal Stories

Writing for the Pet Book and Magazine Market

Dates: 04/20/13-04/20/13

Saturday, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Teaching Artist: Allen Anderson and Linda Anderson

Ages: Adult

Location: Open Book-Loft Classroom, Minneapolis, Minnesota

Reg $49.55, Mem $44.55, Low inc. $34.65

In 2009, Publishers Weekly called pet books, "...so popular that they appear bulletproof even in a down market." Two out of three American homes have pets, and in 2012 owners spend $53 billion on their pet family members. Publishers of nonfiction books and magazines are actively looking for pet books and articles that will become their Marley & Me or Dewey the Library Cat.

In this class, you will learn how to break into the pet book and article market as a self-published or traditionally published author with a variety of angles and options-memoirs, articles, blogs, anthologies, self-help, inspirational, photo-journals, novels, and funny takes on human-pet relationships. You will find out how to build credibility with animal lovers, deal with hot-button issues, and access a platform of potential readers.

This class will include exercises to help you develop the craft of writing compelling true stories about human-animal-connection for publication or for pleasure plus a handout listing magazines and publishers that currently publish pet books and articles. Small copy fee payable to the teaching artists.

Read more about "Writing for the Pet Book and Magazine Market" at www.loft.org/classes/detail/?loft_product_id=15766

Allen and Linda Anderson

Angel Animals Network – Where Pets Are Family

www.angelanimals.net

To subscribe to the Angel Animals Story of the Week, send a blank message to

AngelAnimals-on@mail-list.com

Would You Like to Have a Book Coach and Mentor?

Offered by Linda C. Anderson -- 25 years of Professional Experience

-Author of 16 books and 150 articles

-National award-winning playwright

-Publicist and media coach

-Anthology, nonfiction book, novel, and newsletter editor

-Screenwriter

-Writing Instructor at The Loft Literary Center in Minneapolis

-Winner of an Anderson Center Residency for The Loft's Outstanding Teacher

"I enjoy helping writers to achieve their dreams and become successful. My experiences with agents, editors, and publicists have taught me much about what publishers are looking for and how to shape material into exciting and fresh presentations. I've been fortunate to become knowledgeable about how to write books and proposals that sell. I've learned the shortcuts and the pitfalls. After years of having my own work successfully published, I'm eager to coach and mentor others as their books evolve from idea stage to becoming readers' favorites."

Visit www.writingontherun.com/bookcoach.html for details or write Linda at writingontherun@aol.com

Allen and Linda Anderson

Angel Animals Network – Where Pets Are Family

www.angelanimals.net

To subscribe to the Angel Animals Story of the Week, send a blank message to

AngelAnimals-on@mail-list.com

MAKING SPECIAL TIME FOR YOUR PETS

Feeding, cleaning, exercising, grooming, caring for, playing with pets can sometimes seem like a full-time job. Especially in multiple-pet families.

How do you find time for it all?

If you're like us, you have to multitask, even with your pets. Exercising includes walking combined with playtime and throwing the ball for our cocker spaniel Leaf.

Annual vet appointments involve bringing both our cat Cuddles and Leaf to the veterinarian's office at the same time. We found that sharing their distress with each other actually seems to help them cope better. Cuddles can scurry back into her carrying case and feel safe while Leaf is having his exam.

But one thing that each of our pets requires and deserves is at least a few minutes everyday of our undivided attention. Cuddles tends to like her quiet time while sitting on Linda's lap in the morning. Linda has to work around the cat in order to write in her journal and do a contemplation. But the sound of Cuddles's sweet purring adds a blissful dimension to the centered start of her day.

Leaf's special time comes at night when we take turns rubbing his belly, while he sprawls out on the bed. First, he carefully paws Allen's side of the bed as if preparing a nesting place. Then while Linda pats his head, he answers her question -- How was your day? -- with grunts, groans, and other vocalizations.

Leaf licks Allen's cheeks for a while and then settles in the middle of the bed to sleep until Linda finishes reading and turns off the lights.

Cuddles curls up next to Linda's side. The bird is covered in his cage, sleeping on his perch behind a spray of millet. And everyone drifts into sleep and dream.

How do you make special time for your pets?

Allen and Linda Anderson

Angel Animals Network – Where Pets Are Family

www.angelanimals.net

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