Customer Reviews

The Last Will and Testament of an Extremely Distinguished Dog

5 star:		(25)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Eugene O'neill(1888-1953)was, and is,in the literary and theatrical arena a world-renowned figure.Had he been a baseball player he would be in the Hall of Fame. He was a four-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize, beginning in 1920 for Beyond the Horizon; in 1922 for Anna Christie; in 1928 for Strange Interlude; and again in 1956 for A Long Day's Journey into Night. He also won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1936. He is one of the crown jewels in American literature and Theater. Thus, it was with great interest that I recently received a copy of The Last Will and Testament of an Extremely Distinguished Dog. Quite frankly, while I naturally knew of O'neill, I had never heard of this book. It turns out it is a new edition of a book originally written by O'Neill in the 1940's as a tribute to his dog. Animal lovers, especially those with a particular affection for dogs, owe the publisher a great debt for reissuing this little known gem. Silverdene Emblem O'Neill-better known as Blemie-was a special Border collie that obviously captured the heart of O'Neill. In a moving and timeless elegy O'Neill clearly and compassionately describes the feelings of loss experienced by all true pet lover's when the death of a pet occurs.The pain is evident though O'Neill finds solace and comfort in remembering the joy,friendship and happiness he found with his friend.Those who have experienced the loyalty,love and friendship of a special dog will understand O'Neill's heartwarming tribute to Blemie.The message of love, friendship and caring will be an inspiration to all who have, or will, face the end of a special pet's life. I have read the book four times,not without tears, and still find a message of hope in this tender, special book. This is a wonderful, timeless, elegant book that will move you in ways you may have forgotten.It is bealutifully illustrated with twenty-five original hand-stitched quilts by award-winning quilt maker Adrienne Yorinks.While O'Neill will be remembered in the literary and theatrical world for his Pulitzer and Nobel Prizes, and rightfully so, I will always remember his most for his tribute to Blemie, his most important prize of all. Get this book, you'll be glad you did.

This book is a must-read for anyone who loves dogs, animals, people, life in general. O'Neill's tribute to his dog, Blemie, is full of humor, love, and not a bit of pathos. He puts into words (aptly illustrated by Yorinks) all that is felt and thought by anyone who has loved and lost (or simply loved) a dog. What a wonderful treat this was.

I was recently given this book by my sister-in-law after saying goodbye to my 14 year old corgi, Tommy. Tommy passed in my arms, and it has been very hard dealing with this loss. This book helped me realize the best way to deal with my pain was to celebrate his life rather than mourn his passing. This is the perfect book for anyone who has recently lost their old faithful pal. The book is short, but it is very moving. Be ready to cry.

This short text by playwright Eugene O'Neill is written from the point of view of his dog, Blemie. With quiet eloquence and dignity, Blemie considers the approaching eventuality of his own death and its effect on his beloved Master and Mistress.

He remarks that dogs do not fear death, as humans do, and offers other words of canine comfort related to grieving ("It is painful for me to think that even in death I should cause them pain.") and the possibility of getting a new dog -- a prospect Blemie endorses ("It would be a poor tribute to my memory never to have a dog again.").

This tiny book, written in the voice of a beloved pet, says everything that needs to be said to a Master or Mistress who is mourning the loss of their dearest friend.

The only thing that kept me from giving the book five stars was the tangentially-related illustrations -- dull, unappealing quilts with photographic transfers of dogs stitched into their centers. Certainly, this lovely text could be heightened by beautiful, relevant illustrations. Unfortunately, this edition offers no such thing.

The text rises above the odd choice of illustration, however. This book is perfect for anyone who loves their companion animal(s).

This was given to me when I said Goodbye to an extremely distinguished dog of my own. It was perfect, just what I needed. For anyone who has a beloved canine friend, this poignant essay, in this beautiful form, is a must have.

I had received this book from some caring vet friends after my beautiful, 14 yo dog passed away. I was devastated over losing my wonderful mixed breed boy and I miss him terribly. The book is a quick, comforting read that you will look at over and over again as it will make you cry, smile, and always appreciate the MAGICAL GIFTS THAT DOGS ARE TO US. I have now sent a copy to a friend who lost her dog recently as I appreciated receiving it.

I, unfortunately, have bought this book about 12 times. I buy this as a gift whenever someone close loses a dog from their family. Anyone who has lost a canine member of the family can use this book, it becomes personal to anyone.

i think this is an excelint gift for someone who has lost a loved dog.

...as only a master of literature can do. This is a beautifully told tale, one which I have shared with friends who have lost their best four-legged friends. O'Neill captures the depth of feeling these creatures share with us for too short a time...
A wonderfully positive, uplifting book for anyone dealing with the loss of a beloved pet.
A treasure.

I have sent this little book to dear friends who have recently suffered the loss of a canine family member. They have told me that this little book has brought them tremendous comfort at a very difficult time.