A review by readtheroomjess
Lily and the Octopus by Steven Rowley

emotional sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

I have very mixed feelings about this book. On one hand, it’s beautifully written, heartwarming, and made me think a lot about how much I love the dogs at my feet. However, it was also heartbreaking in a way that felt gratuitous at times. I’m not sure any dog parent wants to hear a story about this
(this being pet illness and death)
. I also think a big part of the point is how much Ted used his relationship with Lily as a crutch to avoid “real life”, and that can be a cautionary tale for those of us who put our lives into our beloved animals. I suppose I’m glad I read this book, but I also kind of wish I never had.
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