"If Only I Could Talk" by Tony Lewis is unquestionably a heart-tugging and insightful story about one very personable dog, the people and canines he encounters during his life's journey, and the lessons he learns along the way. Told in a series of flashbacks, beginning with Nelson being trapped inside a burning house, we are introduced to this philosophical and resourceful dog and quickly grow to love him as he reflects on his memories. Born in the French Alps and adopted by a loving family, Ombre (as he was named by the Moretti family) learns to live with humans in typical puppy fashion: trial and error, and a good bit of mischief. He learns to fetch bread from a local market for his people, using a special harness like contraption strapped to his back. While he does well with the bread, the attempts to have him fetch meat from the butcher did not meet with as much success. Still, despite his occasional mistakes and canine capers, he is loved, pampered, and allowed to roam and explore and grow. He forms friendships with the local dogs, and even falls in love. But fate and human whims intervene, and his family uproots him and moves to another region of France. While there, on a fateful day at a large nature park, Ombre's penchant for the lady dogs leads him far from his family, and he is lost from them forever.
After a series of misadventures, including being chained by a cruel man and beaten, finding himself stuck in a dog pound, and then hitching a ride in a truck to England...Ombre eventually stumbles upon a park where he decides to live for awhile. It turns out the "park" is a cemetery, and is frequented by a young widower, David, and his autistic son Timothy. Ombre and Timothy become friends, and eventually David allows the boy to take the dog home, where they name him "Ozzy" (after the rock music star) and life settles into a peaceful routine again. Ozzy makes himself useful to David by being an example of a "rescue dog" and going with him to various institutions and charities to pitch giving money to animal shelters. He enjoys his life, and the love of his new family.
But fate and human whim intervenes again,and after an incident which threatens his very life, Ozzy finds himself abandoned and alone; only to land, quite literally, in the car of an elderly couple. Which brings us back to the fire, and the strange series of events that come together to show Ozzy..now named Nelson..the pattern of his days, and the purpose and meaning of his life.
This is a contemporary book written by a contemporary Englishman, so for some United States readers, some of the decidedly English colloquialisms and speech patterns might be unfamiliar. Yet, as one gets used to it, it makes sense. Each of the characters has a distinct "voice" and way of expressing themselves, and the way they speak is a part of the fabric of the story.
I came away from reading this book sad to see it end. Ombre-Ozzy-Nelson brought to the world so much love and laughter, and, as it always is with life, sadness and regret. His story makes me see my own canine companions in a new light..and with a new understanding. A very worthwhile and recommended read for anyone, whether they are dog enthusiasts or not.
[Edited for content detail]
OR
Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required.
Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.
Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.
Something went wrong. Please try your request again later.
Customers who viewed this item also viewed
Page 1 of 1 Start overPage 1 of 1
About the author
Follow authors to get new release updates, plus improved recommendations.
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Reviewed in the United States on October 11, 2010
Reviewed in the United States on October 29, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on October 16, 2014
Reviewed in the United States on October 2, 2016
Top reviews from other countries
Lynda Kelly
Made Me Cry But It Has NO Mistakes !!
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on July 11, 2018
Vog46
If Only I Could Talk - English language edition
Reviewed in Italy on September 10, 2014