The reviews were so positive, and I couldn't resist the premise of a charming, inspirational tale of a deaf blind pink puppy who despite his disabilities becomes a fundraising "spokesperson" and a celebrity in the dog rescue community and worldwide via the internet. This is certainly an uplifting and positive story told by Connecticut veterinarian Melissa Shapiro about her rescue dog Piglet. And her six other rescue dogs, and several rescue birds. And her three human children and her husband.

Melissa's daughter, Ellie, sums it up well: "As a whole, this book is not just about Piglet. It’s the story of my mom’s persistence and drive throughout her childhood and vet school, meeting my dad and raising three (wonderful) children, rescuing dozens of birds and dogs, serving hundreds of clients, and most recently, spreading her philosophy of resilience, compassion, and acceptance."

So that's what you need to know when you pick up this book. You will learn about Piglet - and there are many color photos, too - but then you will also learn *all* about Melissa Shapiro and her family (including her parents and in-laws). How could an editor let the story wander so far from the focus of Piglet? I didn't really want to know all about Melissa's childhood and why she became a vet or how she and her husband met and got married. Nor facts about her father and father-in-law(!). Nor the good-night ritual Melissa has with her birds. And so much more!

So if you want to read about Piglet and all the good stuff that is a result of Melissa rescuing and training him, you should at least be warned that this is also Melissa's memoir. I wish I had known that when I picked up this book. ( )

Piglet: The Unexpected Story of a Deaf, Blind, Pink Puppy and His Family by Melissa Shapiro is a 2021 Atria Books publication.

This book wins inspirational story of the year!

Melissa Shapiro, a veterinarian with a thriving practice, a busy family, and a large pet and bird population of her own, agreed to temporarily foster a little puppy that was blind and deaf.

Melissa never dreamed she would eventually give Piglet, his forever home, much less see him become a superstar social media sensation. His journey was one that require a great deal of patience, a whole lot of work, and loads of love and affection- but this little dog’s spirit would teach and inspire countless children to meet the challenges they faced.

This little guy is just adorable, and his story will absolutely melt your heart!! Follow him on Instagram and Facebook- but also read his book. Knowing his journey will help you appreciate just how far this little guy has come and what a wonderful, vibrant disposition he has. He does great work- but he couldn’t have done it without Melissa and her family. They, too, are inspirational and I’m so glad they recognized Piglet’s potential.

Melissa, her family, and Piglet have touched so many lives and should be an example to us all.

I am absolutely smitten with Piglet!! ( )