The Hidden Life of Humans - Erika Ritter

After reading The Hidden Life of Dogs, I thought this book would be an interesting contrast, despite the fact that this one is purely fictional.

The back cover of the book indicates that this novel "examines contemporary human conditions through the eyes of a woman and a dog." Sounds interesting, right? I thought so too.

Narrating paragraphs alternate between Dana, the human, and Murphy, the dog. The only way to distinguish who is narrating at any point is by the paw prints next to the paragraph indicating Murphy's point of view.

The writing format of the book tends to change from chapter to chapter, and the author strays from the storyline on several occasions. Often, unnecessary delusions or dreams over take several sections of the book, and confuse the reader as to whether it is actually happening in the story or if Dana/Murphy are dreaming.

I found parts of the book amusing but I found other parts boring. It took me the entire length of library borrow time to read this book, which initially I had thought I would read in a snap.

As a dog lover, I also found it upsetting that no one really seemed to like Murphy, and that no one really wanted him. He was just a burden to everyone, even his owner, Jerry.

I am not sure I would recommend this book. The parts worth reading don't make up for the rest of the book's lack of direction. Disappointing, really, because I had been looking forward to reading this book.