The story that became a global sensation: Sophie, the Australian cattle dog who was lost at sea and swam six miles through shark-infested waters to a remote island where she survived in the wild for five months. It was just another day in paradise as Jan and Dave Griffith, along with their blue cattle dog, Sophie, motored out of Mackay Marina for a gorgeous weekend at sea. But when the sky suddenly darkened and the waves turned fierce, the unthinkable happened: Sophie disappeared overboard. Her heartbroken humans couldn’t fathom the loss and could only hope their beloved pet didn’t suffer. But this true cattle dog and devoted best friend wasn’t going to give up that easily—and what followed is a remarkable tale of survival, luck, and persistence. From the first day the Griffiths set eyes on puppy Sophie through that terrible October day she was lost, to Sophie’s time as a castaway and the reunion that almost didn’t happen, journalist Emma Pearse recreates the incredible journey of this canine Robinson Crusoe. An inspirational story of loyalty and the resilience of the spirit, Sophie offers undeniable proof about the unbreakable bond between humans and our pets—and that if lost, they would do anything to come home to us.
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"Who doesn't love a great (true)story about a dog separated from her family? A little drawn out for me with details of what possibly could have happened to Sophie while apart from her family. But very good overall!"
— Vicki (4 out of 5 stars)
“It was amazing how this dog swam to a remote island and survived to be reunited with her family. All dog lovers should read this wonderful book.”
— Temple Grandin, New York Times bestselling author of Animals Make Us Human“For dog owners who have ever gazed into the adoring eyes of their pet and felt like there were no bounds to what this creature would do for them…this book will confirm that hunch.”
— O, The Oprah Magazine“A miracle…and one that will touch not only readers devoted to their pets but also anyone who has known the healing power of love.”
— Richmond Times Dispatch“A tender, delightful story of how a cosseted pup turned into a hardy, intrepid—and very lucky—‘supercanine,’ this book will endear itself to dog and adventure lovers everywhere.”
— Publishers Weekly“This emotionally uplifting saga of a Queensland, Australia, family who lost overboard their beloved blue heeler dog, Sophie, while on a weekend boating trip reflects the strength and loyal spirit of these people and canines…Animal lovers and survival story enthusiasts will enjoy this riveting, true store, told with strong local flavor.”
— Library Journal“Dog lovers will appreciate this heartwarming story of animal survival and the ties between humans and animals.”
— Booklist“This story of canine loyalty and the power of human-animal relationships is as charming as its blue-furred heroine. A treat for dog lovers.”
— Kirkus Reviews" Nice dog story, and amazing. "
— Malia, 9/18/2013" I'd never heard this story, but wow! Lucky family to get her back. "
— Stephanie, 9/17/2013" I loved this book. Such a remarkable story of a little dog that survived against all odds. A definite pick you up story, easy to read and heart warming. "
— Bobbie, 6/27/2013" Since my family has raised these dogs for years, it is fascinating for me to read about Sophie's personality, relationship with her family, and her adventure! "
— Tracy, 3/20/2013" This was a sad book but it had a happy ending. Before I read the book I thought Sophie was a German Shepherd. She's a cattle dog (?). "
— Natalie, 3/8/2013" I thought it was a good book because it was a true story about a dog who saved herself. "
— Nicole, 2/19/2013" Absolutely AMAZING read!!! All animal lovers, especially dog lovers need to read this! The fact that it is true story makes it even better. Read it in like 2 days, could not put it down!! "
— Laura, 7/22/2012" Just an amazing story demonstrating the power of dog love! "
— Pat, 3/1/2012Emma Pearse is an Australian journalist who lived in New York for more than ten years, where she wrote for New York magazine, the Financial Times, and the Village Voice, among others. She currently divides her time between Australia and New York.
Anna-Lisa Horton is an experienced actor, presenter, and voice artist who has voiced hundreds of radio commercials and messages on hold. Among her audiobook narrations are What the Bible Is All About and What the Bible Says About God’s Purpose.