Following Atticus: Forty-Eight High Peaks, One Little Dog, and an Extraordinary Friendship by Tom Ryan is published by William Morrow. It tells the story of my adventures with Atticus M. Finch, a little dog of some distinction. You can also find our column in the NorthCountry News.

Wednesday, January 04, 2012

The Book Fetish Calls FOLLOWING ATTICUS One of the Best of Reads of 2011

We're starting off 2012 with a great review of Following Atticus.  It appears on The Book Fetish Blog.  In the review Ashley Williams writes the following:

At one point in the book, Tom says, “Magic is where you find it; the only thing that matters is that you take the time to look for it.” When I read that, I had to put aside the book and write down that sentiment in the little notebook I keep with me all the time. I also quoted it as a Facebook status, and judging by the number of likes it received, this is a sentiment that we need to remember more often. I wasn’t expecting to be hit by a statement like that in this book. Anyone who dismisses Following Atticus as a book “just” about a man and a dog would be missing out on extraordinary story about friendship, self discovery, and the importance of living the life you’re meant to lead. Unexpectedly, Following Atticus is one of my favorite reads for 2011.
You can read the entire review by
clicking here and going to The Book Fetish blog.

10 comments:

AnnO said...

I couldn't agree more! What a wonderful book

Joy said...

The moments spent in quiet communication with my dog on walks in the woods are my most treasured. Thank you for sharing your journey and may your adventures continue! I laughed when reading that you found yourself saying "please" and "thank you" to Atticus as a puppy. I've done that for some reason with my Standard Schnauzer all her life as well! There's something in her spirit that makes it natural. Amid the touring and notoriety, may you continue to "Be true to your work, your word, and your friend." - Thoreau

Anonymous said...

This is very heartwaming news Tom! I just finished Part 1 of the book and confess to a few tears welling up in my eyes as I read. Several emotions are brought to the surface on so many levels. A true testament to the fine work you've done putting this book together.

All the best to you and Atti for continued success with the book and of course continues adventues in the Whites!

Your friend,
Rolly (& Baxter the Boxer)

Cathy W said...

I was just visiting my sister in JP, MA (passing Angell regularly) for New Years and on her desk was a signed copy of your book. I took one look at Atticus M. and dropped what I was doing so I could read it. What an adventure! Having two grown 20lb pups of my own, I can totally relate. I loved your description of working out the suit - although we don't require them in Chicago the boots are a must (and we love muttluks!). I also loved the idea of your father leaving breadcrumbs for you - that helps me to relate to my husband and his dad. I hope your book is a huge success - thanks for putting it on paper!

DoreeninConnecticut said...

I have never blogged, facebooked, twittered or anything like that so this is a huge step for me..but I just had to say how much I loved this book. I have a big problem, though. I have a long commute to work and listen to books on tape. Now, all I want to do is listen to "Following Atticus" over and over. I have no interest in listening to anything else! I'm disappointed in Tom's PR person, though. Where is the toy stuffed Atticus that I would love sitting on my bed? Where are the posters of Tom and Atticus on top of the mountains thta I would frame and hang on mhy wall? C'mon - we need more!! And of course, what about a movie? Thanks for sharing this wonderful story with us.

Vicki H said...

I am just beginning Part III of the book. I love this read. I am a a lover of the mountains and a dog lover and live in a pretty interesting little town in the SW corner of NH, a town much smaller than Newburyport but equally divided into "them and us." Anyway, I know I will never forget this book as I have with many others I have read over the years. I will always remember the title of the book, the author's name, the cast of characters, the photos. And, when I am finished reading it, I will pass it on and recommend it to all those who appreciate a challenging hike, a strong bond, and magic. May the wind always be at your back, but if it isn't, may you continue on your journey with strength and warmth abounding.

Administrator said...

Thankyou for the story.

Anonymous said...

The end of the story, meeting Atticus breeder, left me wondering,
if Tom and Paige found each other?
Another book about that would be neat. If not, my number is 555-5555. hahah Love your story Tom and Atti! JO, Bing and She!

Liam Lama said...

Thats a mountain of books!
Great Blog

Best Wishes
Liam (New Follower)

Paula said...

Just finished it last night. Great book! I cried at some parts. We have an aging schnoodle that loves to hike as well. It's a joy to hike with her because she really thinks everyone in the woods is there for her benefit - to pet her, specifically! She seriously isn't as well behaved as Atticus, though - an alpha female all the way. Also live in NH, but haven't had her to the Whites in while. While we hike twice a year up there, at our hike gathering, they no longer allow pets.

Will be training to do the Appalachian Trail next year this summer. 13 peaks this summer if I'm to finish my 48 on the AT in 2013. After seeing what you did, I feel a LOT better about getting that done!