Review: I, Cosmo by Carlie Sorosiak

Cosmo’s family is falling apart.
And it’s up to Cosmo to keep them together.
He knows exactly what to do.
There’s only one problem.

Cosmo is a Golden Retriever.

Incredibly funny, and filled with warmth and heart, this is Charlotte’s Web meets Little Miss Sunshine – the story of one dog’s attempt to save his family, become a star, and eat a lot of bacon.

Dellybird ran a contest of Twitter to post a picture of your favourite fur companion to win I, Cosmo by Carlie Sorosiak. Shiro was the lucky winner and I happen to be the owner. I, Cosmo is a true gem. Cosmo, a thirteen year old Goldie, does everything in his power to keep his family together. Or at least, not get separated from his human, Max.

I took a picture of Shiro with the book, to show her off, but also to share my Cosmo. Cosmo’s perspective is unique, but I also recognise it in Shiro. We got her when I quit my job, and she keeps me company while I write. When she sits next to me, she lifts her paw so I can hold it. And then we just sit, watching tv. It’s adorable. She doesn’t mind when my husband goes to work, or one of his football matches. But when I leave, she whines and gets depressed. Poor dog.

No dogs die in this book!

It has to be said. I’ve seen enough dog centered movies, and read books with dogs, where the dog dies. As a dog lover, I can’t stand it. That’s why I’m so happy that Cosmo lives, is merry, and dances his way to the end. Literally.

Cosmo has Mr Oinkers. Shiro has big, or piglet. It’s one of her favourite toys, but unlike Mom in the book, I won’t wash it that often. She likes her toys with her scent. Carlie has done an excellent job at describing a dog’s life in a human world, with a human story. It’s not just about Cosmo, or his relationship with Max. Cosmo is as much part of the Walker family as the others. He wants them to stay together. Cosmo’s mischief is in the details, and he’ll never think of his actions are wrong. And it’s clear he doesn’t understand it when he’s done something wrong. It’s the small details that reflect a dog’s life, and his view on things. This story could only have been written by someone who understands dogs.

I rate I, Cosmo five stars. I loved all of it. The characters are great, the story is sweet, and it gave me all the feels. I’m definitely reading this again, and I’ll keep recommending it to everyone who loves (reading about) dogs.