Sophie - by Emma Pearse (Paperback)

About the Book

First published as Sophie: dog overboard in Australia in 2011 and Great Britain in 2012.

Book Synopsis

The story that became a global sensation: Sophie, the Australian cattle dog who was lost at sea and swam six miles through shark-infested waters to a remote island where she survived in the wild for five months.

It was just another day in paradise as Jan and Dave Griffith, along with their blue cattle dog, Sophie, motored out of Mackay Marina for a gorgeous weekend at sea. But when the sky suddenly darkened and the waves turned fierce, the unthinkable happened: Sophie disappeared overboard. Her heartbroken humans couldn't fathom the loss and could only hope their beloved pet didn't suffer. But this true cattle dog and devoted best friend wasn't going to give up that easily--and what followed is a remarkable tale of survival, luck, and persistence.

From the first day the Griffiths set eyes on puppy Sophie through that terrible October day she was lost, to Sophie's time as a castaway and the reunion that almost didn't happen, journalist Emma Pearse recreates the incredible journey of this canine Robinson Crusoe. An inspirational story of loyalty and the resilience of the spirit, Sophie offers undeniable proof about the unbreakable bond between humans and our pets -- and that if lost, they would do anything to come home to us.

Review Quotes

Publishers Weekly, 10/3/11
"A tender, delightful story of how a cosseted pup turned into a hardy, intrepid--and very lucky--'supercanine, ' this book will endear itself to dog and adventure lovers everywhere."

Kirkus Reviews, 11/1/11
"This story of canine loyalty and the power of human-animal relationships is as charming as its blue-furred heroine. A treat for dog lovers."

Temple Grandin, author of Animals in Translation and Animals Make Us Human, August 29, 2011
"It was amazing how this dog swam to a remote island and survived to be reunited with her family. All dog lovers should read this wonderful book."

Library Journal
"This emotionally uplifting saga of a Queensland, Australia, family who lost overboard their beloved blue heeler dog, Sophie, while on a weekend boating trip reflects the strength and loyal spirit of these people and canines....Animal lovers and survival story enthusiasts will enjoy this riveting, true store, told with strong local flavor."

Booklist, 1/1 issue
"Dog lovers will appreciate this heartwarming story of animal survival and the ties between humans and animals."

American Way, February2012
"A heartwarming tale of the power of love and perseverance."

About the Author

Emma Pearse is an Australian journalist who lived in New York for over ten years, where she wrote for New York magazine, the Financial Times, and the Village Voice, among others. Emma lives and works between Australia and New York. Sophie is her first book.