blueranger9's review against another edition

Go to review page

5.0

I have recently been getting more and more involved in the grassroots rescue organizations, and stumbled upon this book at the library. I immediately took it off the shelf because I was drawn to the tattoos, burly men and pits (a breed I have a soft spot for), but I was immediately drawn into the story. The guys are actually based here on Long Island, so I particularly enjoyed it because I knew every town they were talking about, and it was cool to hear about the efforts of the shelters and clinics that I have actually been to. Even more special, is that I got to meet them two weeks ago at an event here on the Island, and got them to sign the book. The work they do is great, I couldn't gush enough about them as individuals. Their show on the National Geographic Channel actually chronicles many of these stories. The show even managed to capture the happy ending of the case of an elderly man abusing animals and harassing neighbors, by showing how Rescue Ink outsmarted him and testified against him in court. While a lot of the stories can be seen in the episodes, it's a great introduction to each of the guys, their backgrounds, and how Rescue Ink came to be. Highly recommend it!

moni_78's review against another edition

Go to review page

Great story of men that break the mold of animal rescue.

rcold's review

Go to review page

3.0

While I liked reading about these interesting men and their animal rescues, the author becomes repetitive in emphasizing how "big, bad and dangerous" these guys seem in contrast to the animals they save. It was fine to discuss that in the beginning of the book because it establishes the dynamics of the men and their story but turns into a cliche when it is a device used in every chapter. The point that animal rescue can be a "macho thing" and is not the sole responsibility of women got across in the first few chapters; no need to do it throughout the book. Otherwise, I liked the book and learned some facts about animal rescue that I didn't know beforehand.

corvus_corone's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

I picked this book up because it caught my eye on the way through my local half priced books. It is a book of short, episodic chapters covering both the members of Rescue Ink and some of their more memorable rescue stories.

A unique look at animal rescue from a unique group of animal rescuers. Most of the members are tattooed, largely muscled men with a soft spot for misunderstood breeds and critters in need. Each member has their own background and reasons for doing what they do and each have their own specialties. Not every story is a success and some are downright heartbreaking.

I really enjoyed the focus on rehabilitating pit bulls (and other breeds) who have been abused or used for bait dogs. There is a chapter on an cat hoarder that I would not recommend reading if you plan to eat anything in the next 2 hours or so. They do not spare the graphic details which really drives many of the stories home.

tin_squid's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

All in all, a really great book about an unconventional group of animal rescuers. Sometimes what you really need in life is a horde of extremely selfless manly-men. This book gives some back story on the various members of Rescue Ink and shares some of their formative, animal-loving stories.
Some of the stories are a little hard to read considering the content. It isn't overly graphic, but you can fill in the blanks pretty easily. Fortunately the book mostly focuses on success stories. There are loads of happy endings and 'forever-homes' discusses here. Overall the book gives off the same vibe the guys want to; it is tough and maybe a little hard to take at times, but still very positive in the end.
In addition to the stories, the book also contains tips for adoption, finding lost pets and basic pet care. There are few specifics, but they at least point a curious reader in the right direction.

maxandrambo's review against another edition

Go to review page

3.0

3.5 stars

I enjoyed the stories and heart of this book. Occasionally, I found myself put off by the writing style that could be trite at times and I felt that it tried too hard to present its 'macho-ness'. . . it was like it had stuffed its pants. Aside from that, I loved it and this group of guys (and Mary.) My tear ducts were moved, so I know it was good.

fallingstar924's review against another edition

Go to review page

4.0

This is a great book for animal lovers. It shows how EVERYONE should be supporters of animals. These guys (and gal) do whatever it takes to help animals and people out. I like the message that they don't judge - I think this is very important to remember.
More...