Spike Unleashed: The Wonder Dog Returns by Bill Boggs
What's It About?
Our English Bull Terrier hero and his master Bud continue their hilarious antics in this latest installment of Spike the Wonder Dog’s adventures.In a world filled with dog-centric tales, from classics like “Lassie” to modern tales of inspiration like “Marley & Me,” Bill Boggs adds another layer of fun with “Spike Unleashed: The Wonder Dog Returns.” Boggs brings keen observations, wit and a bit of social commentary to this entertaining tale of Spike and Bud’s foray into movie making.
While this book is the second in the Spike series, it reads as a standalone with a few wry references – and encouragements to read – to the first novel, its characters and events. Spike is endearing from the beginning, and his take on the humans in his life is what drives the humor. Clearly Boggs has a deep understanding of canine behavior, their quirks, and what makes them lovable to humans. This book is, in many ways, a celebration of that bond.
Spike is a bit of a celebrity in High Point, North Carolina where he lives with his owner Bud, who hosts a local morning TV show. Both have a desire to have a higher profile, as we learn as the story kicks off, with Spike’s hope to meet a Kardashian, who will be in town to kick off furniture week and promote a new line of comfortable “wide-bottomed” chairs. This is an example of the type of humor woven throughout the story – some is slightly sly and requires a bit of knowledge about topics that swirl in social media, and others are scenes of outright hilarity, as when Spike encounters a mechanical alligator on a movie set (no spoilers!).
Every political party and recent news event is in the sights as a target for Boggs’ humor. The book is well-paced, but it does involve a wide cast of characters which at times can be hard to keep track of. But once the reader lets go, and allows themselves to be carried along by the story, who is who is less important than going along for this hilarious ride.
Though the novel is grounded in humor, there are moments of genuine emotion that tug at the heartstrings. These moments create a nice balance, reminding readers of the depth of connection and loyalty that dogs bring into our lives.
Of course, like any tale, there are moments where the narrative might lean a bit too heavily on canine-centered humor, which might not resonate with every reader. And Boggs does explore both the highs and lows of having a pet, adding a realistic touch to an otherwise light-hearted tale.
“Spike Unleashed: The Wonder Dog Returns” is a raucous tale that ping pongs quickly through interactions with a colorful cast of characters in a number of different locations, all of which come together to highlight why dogs, and the people who love them, are special and wonderful. Bill Boggs captures the essence of canine companionship, delivering it with humor and heart. It’s a testament to the timeless joy that these four-legged friends bring into our lives.
