*Happy Harry by Barbara Lampert
Publisher: Golden Wolf books
Genre: Non-Fiction, Animal Essays
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Larkspur
“Nobody who loves dogs will be able to resist your book! A magnificent love story!” – Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson, international bestselling author of Dogs Never Lie About Love and When Elephants Weep.
In her dog memoir “Happy Harry: A Magical Golden”, psychotherapist Barbara Lampert, a lifelong dog lover, tells the story of her beloved Golden Retriever, Harry. Like her first dog memoir, Harry’s story comes from her mostly uncensored daily journal and takes place in Malibu, California.
Harry was a genuinely free spirit – wild, and very wolf-like. Did all this contribute to his being exceptionally happy? Perhaps.
Harry was not only the happiest being Barbara’s ever known, happy to the very core of him, but also the bravest. More than once in his life, Harry had to face true adversity, and each time, Barbara would look at him in wonder, not fully understanding how a being could be so brave and at the same time continue to be so happy.
Harry literally pranced through life, with a joyous attitude that made being around him like magic. Barbara fell in love with Harry. And as you immerse yourself in Harry’s story, it’s likely you will too! Happy Harry is unforgettable!
You don’t have to be a lover of Golden Retrievers to find this story captivating, but if Goldens are your favorite dog, you will thoroughly enjoy this story about Harry the rambunctious, precocious and fun-loving Golden Retriever.
When I first saw this book about Harry, a Golden Retriever I knew I had to read it. I have raised four Goldens throughout my life and currently have Charlie, a two-year-old Golden Retriever. So many things Barbara Lampert wrote about resonated with me. I could relate to so many of her experiences with Harry. The descriptions of Harry are funny and poignant. The writing is entertaining and interesting, and I fell in love with Harry along the way. The story chronicles Harry’s life from the time he is adopted at nine weeks, until his death. Harry is a typical friendly Golden Retriever, and I enjoyed reliving Barbara’s experiences with him. Her love of dogs and how much Harry touched her heart is evident in her writing.
Barbara takes us on a thoughtful and insightful journey. It is a beautiful tribute to Harry and made me laugh at all his crazy antics and cry when his end was near. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a sweet, feel good, well written story. This story touched my heart and made me want to give my dog a hug and make sure I enjoy the time he is with me.
Thank you so much for reviewing today.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read and review my book! I love what you had to say, which captures the spirit of my book and Harry! Yes, Goldens are extraordinary!
This sounds interesting. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you!
What’s your favorite summer getaway for writing inspiration?
The Montecito/Santa Barbara area in California is very inspirational for me. But my beautiful dogs and my garden give me the most inspiration! Thanks for the great question, Tracie! Happy Summer to you!
Adorable cover
Thank you so much, Nancy! Harry was special!
This sounds like an interesting read.
Thanks so much, Sherry!
I just love the cover and I cannot wait to buy this book.
Thank you so much on both counts, Michele! Makes me happy! I hope you enjoy Harry’s story!
Sounds good, I like the cover.
Thanks so much, Rita!
What’s your ultimate summer writing goal this year?
Another great question, Tracie! Definitely got me thinking…I’ll be promoting my book. That I know. I have the start of a book in my head, about another of my Golden Retrievers, of course. I also have a few hundred pages written about my years as a flight attendant that need to be typed up and organized. Tracie, thanks so much for your wonderful questions and your interest! Have a great weekend! Barbara
“Happy Harry: A Magical Golden” by Barbara Lampert is a heartwarming dog memoir that shares the special bond between a dog and his owner. It’s a touching and uplifting story that’s perfect for any dog lover!
Edgar, a great big thank you for your wonderful words about my book! How thoughtful of you! My best to you! Barbara
Wnat’s the most fun part of writing for you?
I love to write, and I love to tell stories! And I love to tell them as if I’m talking to you! Thank you again, Tracie!
Thank you so much for this very special honor! This means so much to me! I’m thrilled! And thank you to all who made this happen!
Who is your favorite author and why?
Thanks for asking, Tracie! I have so many favorite authors but one of my very favorites is Anne Tyler! She writes beautifully, her stories are not predictable and even though they’re fiction, she has a great understanding of human nature. Lots of her stories revolve around eccentric people and dysfunctional families. But people and family situations that most of us can relate to. She has a great sense of humor and many of her stories are whimsical. And somewhat of side note, one of my favorite dog stories is “The Art of Racing in the Rain” by Garth Stein. I hope that answers your question. And then some! My best to you!
Do you find summer to be a productive time for your writing?
Not necessarily. Probably a little too distracted with my garden which seems to need lots of attention in the summer because of the heat. Generally, I write all year long and I really can’t say when I write more. Yes, I have written in the summer, but if I had to guess, I think I write more in the fall and winter. Though last spring I wrote nonstop for 2 months. Interesting question which has given me some thought. I hope I’ve answered your question.