Book Review: Special Paws

Special Paws by Tracey Altman, illustrated by Joseba Morales.  Inspired Forever Publishing. Paperback. $14.89

You can read Special Paws in about the time it will take you to read this review. It’s a sweet little book with a slant on shelters that it’s where dogs go until they find the perfect family. Two dogs in neighboring cages talk about what they are looking for in the ideal home. I really loved the illustrations, with the dogs doing adorable stretches, looking pensive, and just being two happy dogs. 

My only tiny criticism is that one of the dogs somehow obtains a pencil and paper for making his list of “must haves.” These are not dressed up cartoon dogs. These are normal dogs waiting in a shelter, so it’s a bit jarring when one of them starts writing a list. I know, I’ve already bought into the idea that they are talking to one another, but that just doesn’t seem as strange as the list making.

Still, it’s a charming little book and a portion of the proceeds goes to animal shelters to promote foster programs

review by

Susan M. Ewing
Past president, Cat Writers’ Association
Past secretary, Dog Writers Association of America
Award-winning author, 14 animal books
“Cats! Train Your Owner” (Flash Cards)
Numerous magazine articles
Pet columnist