An affecting and often hilarious ode to the healing power of dogs.
Charns’s compelling latest takes an unconventional approach to wellness, pairing candid reflections on mental health with the irreverent observations of Annie, his German shepherd–husky mix. Part memoir and part playful wellness guide, the book follows Charns’s efforts to maintain his physical and emotional well-being after a serious mental health crisis. Annie considers herself therapist, workout buddy, trainer, comedian, and indispensable best friend, and her cheeky, conversational narrative voice lends the book warmth and personality.
Drawing on personal experience, Charns explores the many dimensions of recovery, from professional treatment and exercise to family, faith, friendship, meditation, reading, recreation, volunteering, and gratitude. His candor about psychiatric illness gives the narrative emotional weight, while Annie’s lively commentary keeps even difficult subjects approachable. Especially effective is Charns’s challenge to the stigma surrounding mental illness and his call for mental and physical health to be met with equal compassion. Breezy chapters and an engaging conversational style make this a warm, accessible read. Charns offers no miracle cure, but something more persuasive: a heartfelt reminder that wellness can grow through routine, connection, humor, and four-legged companionship.
Warm, witty, and full of canine charm, this is just the ticket for dog lovers seeking a hopeful read.
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Bull City Law Publishing
Pub date September 1, 2026
ISBN 979-8193132011
Print length 74 pages
Price $7.00 Paperback, $0.99 Kindle edition, $0.00 Kindle Unlimited
