Finding Gobi (Main edition): The true story of a little dog and an incredible journey
As seen:
By Dion Leonard
avg rating
1 review
THE SUNDAY TIMES NO.2 BESTSELLER
Like A Streecat Named Bob before it, Finding Gobi is a truly heart-warming story for animal lovers worldwide… In 2016, Dion Leonard, a seasoned ultramarathon runner, unexpectedly stumbled across a little stray dog while competing in a gruelling 155 mile race across the Gobi Desert. The lovable pup, who earned the name ‘Gobi’, proved that what she lacked in size, she more than made up for in heart, as she went step for step with Dion over the treacherous Tian Shan Mountains, managing to keep pace with him for nearly 80 miles. As Dion witnessed the incredible determination of this small animal, he felt something change within himself. In the past he had always focused on winning and being the best, but his goal now was simply to make sure that his new friend was safe, nourished and hydrated. Although Dion did not finish first, he felt he had won something far greater and promised to bring Gobi back to the UK for good to become a new addition to his family. This was the start of a journey neither of them would ever forget with a roller coaster ride of drama, grief, heartbreak, joy and love that changed their lives forever. Finding Gobi is the ultimate story of hope, of resilience and of friendship, proving once again, that dogs really are ‘man’s best friend.’ TweetReviews
margaret.unsworth@btinternet.com
Reviewed by Penistone Library Readers' Group on 26th March 2018. 12 members were present to discuss the book and as usual opinions were split with the majority enjoying the book.
The comments were
• An easy read and an enjoyable story
• Would make a good film
• I don’t like dogs but enjoyed the book, an engaging tale but not sentimental or twee.
• The three aspects of the book appeal¬—running, the dog and China. Reminds me of well written journalism, an easy clear style.
• Learnt a lot about China and its lifestyle which to us can seem weird and illogical.
• The author’s obsession and determination to win came over very clearly in both his running and search to rescue Gobi.
• Found the running stuff fascinating and the most interesting parts of the book.
Some less favourable comments included
• Twee
• Depth of the search became tedious after 100 pages, over sentimental about the dog
• Felt parts of it were ghost written and needed better editing. The bits whish seemed to be written by Dion himself were the most interesting parts.
Some clear opposite views here, nothing new in that for our group!
We decided to give it a 4* review.
Thanks to the publishers for letting us have 10 copies in exchange for an honest review.
