Lily and the Octopus

By: Steven Rowley

Narrated by: Michael Urie

A national bestseller combining the emotional depth of The Art of Racing in the Rain with the magical spirit of The Life of Pi, “Lily and the Octopus is the dog book you must read this summer” (The Washington Post).

Ted—a gay, single, struggling writer is stuck: unable to open himself up to intimacy except through the steadfast companionship of Lily, his elderly dachshund. When Lily’s health is compromised, Ted vows to save her by any means necessary. By turns hilarious and poignant, an adventure with spins into magic realism and beautifully evoked truths of loss and longing, Lily and the Octopus reminds us how it feels to love fiercely, how difficult it can be to let go, and how the fight for those we love is the greatest fight of all.

Introducing a dazzling and completely original new voice in fiction and an unforgettable hound that will break your heart—and put it back together again. Remember the last book you told someone they had to read? Lily and the Octopus is the next one. “Startlingly imaginative...this love story is sure to assert its place in the canine lit pack...Be prepared for outright laughs and searing or silly moments of canine and human recognition. And grab a tissue: “THERE! WILL! BE! EYE! RAIN!” (New York Newsday).

Charming, quirky, funny and heartbreaking.

Beautiful tribute to the love of a four legged companion. I related to this book so much. Highly recommend it. I laughed out loud and I cried. Just jump in and let yourself be swept along for the ride.

So sad, but perfect.

I tried to avoid liking this book, I know how dog stories go. But this was different. The voice of Lily is perfect and anyone who has ever loved a dog will immediately recognize themselves.

Recommended for animals lovers.

This novel is best suited for animal lovers, especially those that have (or have had) strong bonds with a pet. The story is quirky and very sweet. The narration is excellent.

Made my cry

Listener beware, this will def make you teary, especially if you’ve lost a pet recently like I have. But it’s a wonderful performance and a cute story.

Caution

This audiobook is amazing. Well-written, evocative and heart-warming, it explores elements of relationships, mental illness, and just the day-to-day dealing with intense emotions and situations.

But if you are a true animal lover, get prepared for some heavy sobbing. Thank heavens for the last bit of the book that brings you out of it again.