BETWEEN THE CAUSEWAYS

In this novel inspired by a true story, two stray dogs in the woods set three strangers on a yearlong rescue operation that creates friendships and inspires major life changes.

It is April, and Bell has just picked up two birthday cakes for a celebration at her home when she pulls over to the side of Langston Road to let an aggressive driver in a tailgating Jeep pass. Bell hears something in the woods, but no human or animal appears—until her second drive down the road. This is when she spots two emaciated and frightened canines, a mother and her young pup, peering out from the foliage. Meanwhile, Emma, who turns out to be the “Jeep Lady” who has been burning rubber down Langston Road, has also spotted the two dogs. She too has been trying to entice the animals out of the woods. Then there is Charles, a driver for a logging company, who has been giving snacks to the hungry strays. It is not until December, in the middle of a heavy rainstorm, that the three rescuers finally meet on the road, each bringing something to help the now solitary puppy through the downpour and learning for the first time that they have all been on the same mission. The three protagonists in Campbell’s upbeat tale about new friendships and fresh beginnings are not fully three-dimensional, but their personal journeys through this swiftly paced adventure are engaging. The author supplies plenty of delightful canine antics (Bell already cares for a devoted, four-dog pack), although the descriptions of pooches and backstories are repeated too often. Naturally, with so many animals taking center stage, there is a tear-inducing episode. But there is also excitement, especially when a tornado rips through the small Southern town. Although Campbell’s frequent use of staccato onomatopoeia (“Splash. Thud. Splash.”) and unadorned prose make the narrative especially appropriate for younger readers, dog lovers of all ages will find the story enjoyable.  

This charming canine tale offers a feel-good escape from the weight of fraught headlines.