International Dog Day: Five novels dog lovers must read to be moved

Representative Image.Pic/iStock

International Dog Day is observed on August 26 across the world. A celebration of our furry friends, the day encourages adoption of all breeds and aims to raise awareness about the myriad issues faced by them. Even though dogs can be found everywhere, from streets to social media, depictions in popular media have known to help the cause of adoption along. Many feature films and books--for adults and children both--have featured dogs as key characters. If you're a canine-loving human who can't keep themselves from petting cheery doggos on the street, we have rounded up a list of heart-warming tales which feature dogs as central characters.

Marley and Me: Life and Love with the World's Worst Dog by John Grogan

American journalist and author John Grogan writes this autobiographical book about an unruly but lovable Labrador retriever, Marley. The widely popular book recounts the 13 years that his family spent with Marley and how he left an indelible mark on their lives. The book was also adapted into a family comedy-drama movie starring Jennifer Aniston and Owen Wilson.

A Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron

A New York Times bestseller, this novel chronicles the journey of a dog with a deep-seated affection for humans. Through reincarnation, we follow its multiple lives across genders and breeds as it continues to seek the purpose of existence through the impact it has on humans. Laced with humour, this book was adapted into a comedy-drama adventure movie starring KJ Apa and Britt Robertson.

The Friend by Sigrid Nunez

A novel about grief and resilience of the human (and canine) spirit, The Friend follows a female writer who is coping with the recent loss of her best friend and mentor. The protagonist is left with his Great Dane, who is also mourning the loss of his owner. Although initially reluctant to adopt a new pet, they go on to form an unshakeable bond that helps them both heal.

The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein

This nuanced book follows an adorable Golden retriever, Enzo, and his race car driver dad Denny Swift's dramatic lives. Narrated through the perspective of Enzo, readers get to experience how the dog observes and interacts with his surroundings. Enzo is a constant pillar of support for Denny through the ups and downs of his life as he marries Eve, loses her to cancer and fights an explosive custody battle for their daughter. This New York Times bestseller was also adapted into a comedy-drama movie starring Milo Ventimiglia and Amanda Seyfried.

Old Yeller by Fred Gipson

A classic by all means, this novel follows 14-year-old Travis who is left to care of his family's farm where he comes across a stray dog, Old Yeller. Travis initially rebukes and tries to get rid of the stray, however the dog's show of loyalty on multiple occasions gives birth to an affectionate bond. The critically acclaimed book was adapted into drama movie by Walt Disney starring Dorothy McGuire and Fess Parker.