A Dog Named Slugger - Softcover

Brill, Leigh

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0984325654 ISBN 13: 9780984325658

Publisher: Bell Bridge Books, 2010

Synopsis

The true life story of a dog who changed everything for one woman.

For the first time in my life, I didn't need to pretend, I didn't need to be tough: I only needed to be honest. "I have cerebral palsy. I walk funny and my balance is bad. I fall a lot. My hands shake, too. That means I'm not so good at carrying things. And if I drop stuff, sometimes it's hard to just bend down and get it." I waited anxiously for the interviewer's response. She smiled. "It sounds like a service dog could be great for you."

So began Leigh Brill's journey toward independence and confidence, all thanks to a trained companion dog named Slugger.

The struggling college student and the Labrador with a "a coat like sunshine" and a tail that never stopped wagging became an instant team. Together, they transformed a challenge into a triumph. Together, they inspired and educated everyone they met. Now, Leigh honors her friend with the story of their life, together.

About this title

From Booklist:

Brill’s memoir concerns her life near the end of her college years, a time when her cerebral palsy worsened and she began to struggle with everyday tasks. Learning about helper dogs trained to aid people with CP, Leigh applies and is matched with a big, lovable yellow Lab named Slugger. For nearly 10 years, he accompanies Leigh everywhere, helping her walk, picking up dropped pens, even turning on lights and opening heavy doors. With Slugger’s aid, Leigh gradually comes to accept and be able to talk about her disease and eventually finds love and a career. This touching memoir will warm the hearts of dog lovers everywhere; Slugger is the heart and soul of the book, and his dedication, devotion, and love make him an unforgettable character. While the writing is sometimes clunky and Leigh’s family is inexplicably absent, what remains is still irresistible: a sweet story about a woman and her dog. This canine version of Homer’s Odyssey (2009) will appeal equally to readers interested in coping or helping others cope with disabilities. --Jessica Moyer

About this edition

• Publisher: Bell Bridge Books
• Publication date: 2010
• ISBN 10: 0984325654
• ISBN 13: 9780984325658
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 250