Walking Alison

A Poodle’s Mostly True Story of Helping Her Human Navigate Life

By: Alison Rand

Narrated by: Alison Rand

How did humans manage to function before dogs were domesticated some 23,000 years ago? That is what Dea, a savvy black poodle, wonders in Walking Alison: A Poodle’s Mostly True Story of Helping Her Human Navigate Life, by Alison Rand—a wise and jaunty memoir told entirely from her dog’s point of view.

During their daily walks, new puppy Dea pulls her human, Alison, by the leash into making connections, handling crippling loss, and coping with the challenges of life. What might have been tragic through Alison’s eyes finds wider perspective and resonance through Dea’s as she tolerates Alison’s pathetic attempts at meditation and online dating, sees her through a second bout of cancer, and finally steers Alison toward appreciating life’s daily wonders that are a puppy’s birthright.

Thanks to Dea’s “training,” Alison learns to finally trust herself in new and life-affirming ways, realizing that feeling safe is a conscious decision.

©2023 Alison Rand (P)2023 Alison Rand

Such an enjoyable listen!

I found the telling of Alison Rand’s story through the eyes (and voice) of her beloved poodle, Dea a real treat. Spunky, insightful, patient, compassionate Dea shares her unjaded, innocent perspective about her human. Dea’s insights are simple and so true. It really captures the unconditional love that be so magical between a dog and their human. As Dea bears witness to Alison’s struggles, I was rooting for Alison as much as Dea was! The narration by the author was wonderful.

Crazy About the Audiobook!

I loved reading Walking Alison! I was particularly partial, however, listening to the Audiobook! The real-life characters come alive, with Alison's amazing talent for affecting different voices, in such a highly convincing way. Her memoir confronts an array of life issues, from the comical world of online dating, to the most difficult and sometimes tragic — illness and loss. At the same time, Alison is able to blend these themes with a wonderful sense of humor, through her very astute and adoring poodle, Dea, who is the "narrator!" Alison's memoir is not only deeply moving and encouraging. Her triumph and resilience, to some of life's most serious challenges, is contagious — and are attributes we can all benefit from!

This is a funny and charming read for anyone who loves dogs or if you are getting a puppy!

Loved reading about Dea and Alison on there many adventures in Manhattan. Dea is a beautiful poodle and mentor for Alison through all her hurdles in life. The ending is uplifting and positive

A lovely, touching and intimate memoir

Alison Rand has written a very sensitive, poetic, memorable memoir of her life….. seen from the eyes of her beautiful black poodle ….Dea
Very interesting, warm and touching…… had me thinking about how our furry four-legged friends may really see us……Alison’s Dea is a voice of immense wisdom……

Charmed

I got the audiobook after reading the Kindle version of this title. It was wonderful to hear the author, Alison Rand, narrate her own words. She did a terrific job giving a spoken voice to Dea the poodle. Sometimes sad, sometimes joyful, always charming, Walking Alison will carry you along on your own walk through life. I enjoyed listening as much as I enjoyed reading this very human story told by a savvy little canine.

A Memoir of Resilience and Love

What a delightful story of self discovery and love for a furry child. Though this memoir is often serious, it also made me laugh at the antics little Dea the poodle put her mom Alison through. Their shared life journey together was inspiring, loving and filled with meaningful lessons learned. Who was teaching whom?! If you love dogs and especially if you have or ever have had a special fur baby in your life you are sure to enjoy “Walking Alison: A Poodle’s Mostly True Story of Helping Her Human Navigate Life”. The Audible version was truly entertaining. How in the world did the author switch so seamlessly between the different characters’ s voices? Very nicely done Alison, and Dea too!

Insight about how humans connect with their dogs using a wonderful sense of humor

I appreciate how the author weaves the shadow elements in so organically. Also, being a dog lover myself, I resonate with the special connection Dea has with her owner.