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gabmc's review
3.0
This is a really lovely true story of the impact a golden retriever called Henry had on a boy with autism. When Dale Gardner was born, his mother Nuala, as a nurse and midwife, was alert and in tune with his behaviour and temperament. When Dale didn't seem to be meeting baby milestones, her arduous journey started with trying to find a diagnosis for Dale as well as the best therapy. She was convinced that Dale had autism even when doctors and psychologists said otherwise. Luckily she kept pushing and fighting for him and researched into anything that might help. By the time Dale was three, he had lost most of his ability to speak and had major tantrums most days. Family friends bred golden retrievers and Nuala had learned that a dog may benefit Dale. Dale named the dog Henry (after the Thomas the Tank Engine train) and almost immediately there was a change in Dale. The influence of Henry on the whole family was amazing, but the effect on Dale was miraculous. My favourite quote, quoted by the author is:
“To call him a dog hardly seems to do him justice, though in as much as he had four legs, a tail and barked, I admit he was, to all outward appearances. But to those of us who knew him well, he was a perfect gentleman.”
“To call him a dog hardly seems to do him justice, though in as much as he had four legs, a tail and barked, I admit he was, to all outward appearances. But to those of us who knew him well, he was a perfect gentleman.”
karinlib's review
4.0
What a wonderful book about a dog that changes the lives of two children with Autism. Yes, it was a heartwarming story about a Golden Retriever, but it was so much more than that. I found myself riveted by the Gardners' story and how as a family they learned about raising children with Autism.
vikingwolf's review
When Dale was born his mother noticed that he had trouble communicating and had behavioural problems.She suspected that her son was autistic but health professionals seemed happier to blame the parents for the way Dale behaved.This is her struggle to be heard and to find a way into Dale's lonely world.
Very heavy going and I couldn't keep reading about every tantrum the boy had.I was getting mentally tired with the story!
Very heavy going and I couldn't keep reading about every tantrum the boy had.I was getting mentally tired with the story!
jjohnson2907's review
4.0
Highly emotional and heartwarming story. Worth a read as it shows the difficulties that so many people endure and live through...and how comfort and peace can be found in the most unexpected ways. Moving story that will stay with me long after.
agustinap's review against another edition
3.0
It was an interesting story. I cannot imagine what it must be like to have not one but two kids with autism. Having a fur baby myself, it's amazing what the power of love can do.
90sirishgirl's review
4.0
This was a very well written book about a families struggle when they find out their son has autism and how 1 dog named Henry really helped this family in their struggle. The part I didn't like was the use of IVF but other than that it is a great read.