by Jim Gorant
First published 2012
Wallace sits in a shelter in summer 2005, destined for euthanasia after being rescued from a questionable breeding operation. Andrew "Roo" Yori, a scientist who volunteers at the shelter, recognizes something extraordinary in the unwanted pit bull. When Roo learns during his honeymoon that Wallace faces imminent death, he and his wife scramble to save the dog despite already owning two pets. They succeed in adopting Wallace, but Roo knows his new companion needs purpose. They discover competitive Frisbee, a sport that seems impossible for a heavy, muscular pit bull in a world dominated by lighter, more agile breeds. Roo embraces this challenge because he wants to transform public perception of pit bulls. Wallace and Roo face injuries and breed discrimination as they climb the competitive ranks. Their partnership proves that preconceptions about pit bulls are wrong, ultimately reaching the pinnacle of their sport as World Champions.
Genres: animals, sports, dogs, biography-memoir
Vibes: emotional-atmospheric, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: overcoming-adversity, underdog
Period: 2005
10 pages · Audio CD · Blackstone Audiobooks