by Mary Oliver
First published 2013
Mary Oliver explores her lifelong connections with the dogs that joined her daily walks and filled her home. She begins with simple moments that any dog owner knows well. A dog waits by the door. Another curls up near the fireplace. These small scenes become deeper reflections on nature and human connection through Oliver's lens. The collection features Percy, a dog Oliver loved deeply, alongside other canine companions from throughout her years. Oliver writes about joy and laughter when her dogs discover new trails or chase after sticks. She also captures the pain of loss when these friends grow old and die. Each dog appears as more than a pet. They become teachers who show Oliver how to notice the present moment and find wonder in the natural world. The poems reveal how these animals guided Oliver toward greater awareness of life's rhythms and beauty.
Genres: nature, animals, poetry, biography-memoir
Vibes: emotional, intimate, lyrical
Tropes: found-family
127 pages · Hardcover · The Penguin Press