“The Dog Who Came In From the Cold,” by Alexander McCall Smith

FM’s ratings:

1.      Premise 7

2.      Prose 8

3.      Plot 7

4.      Characters 9

5.      Overall 8

Comments (optional - but try to keep it under 3000 words!)

Another “soap opera” style “relationship-centered” gem from McCall Smith.  As always, the prose is low-key, but penetrating, riddled with pithy philosophical asides that should detract, but somehow never do.  The title character, a “Pimlico Terrier” named Freddie de la Hay, is smartly portrayed with what feels like an accurate depiction of dog psychology.  The guilt of his owner is palpable, as the owner’s betrayal of Freddie’s total trust is made manifest.  Each of the other threads that weave in and out of this main thread tells its own story of human relationships, flaws, and triumphs.  Odd situation-comedy vignettes pop up from time to time; embarrassing moments of the kind we all find ourselves in periodically.  Some may find this kind of writing “boring,” especially if they are looking for action thrillers or topical premises.  But if the reader sets aside his expectations long enough to let McCall Smith’s magic work, he will find a calm, rather profound delight in store.