This one is STELLAr!

Oh, I have a delightful book to tell you about and 2 copies to give away!

I must preface this by admitting: I'm not a dog lover. Or any animals, for that matter. I've never had a pet and don't care to. But I loved Allison Pittman's Crossroads of Grace series so much that when I read in her newsletter that she had written a book about her dog called Saturdays with Stella, I knew it would be good. So when I had a chance to review it, I eagerly agreed.

Stella is her newly adopted "tiny, shiny puppy of indefinable breed(s)" who joined the family a year after the death of their previous "perfect" dog, Neumann - who never pounced, never chewed a shoe, and always behaved with decorum. Stella, however, was the anti-Neumann. As she wreaked havoc on the Pittman household, it became clear that some serious changes were needed. So Allison signed Stella up at the local pet store for a six-week obedience class.

Amid the antics and adventures of teaching Stella doggy discipline, and accompanied by amusing commentary on the other class participants (including my favorites, two Yorkshire terriers named Prima and Donna!), Allison learns a few lessons about relating to her Master, including:

Sit -- at the feet of Jesus and listen for His voice
Drop it -- and let go of personal agendas
Come -- when it's time to run in the right direction
Stay -- in God's presence

Interspersed with plenty of chuckle-inspiring moments, this light-hearted and clever book is also tender and sweet. It reminded me that sometimes the most basic lessons are the ones I need to pay attention to. And if I liked it, I know that those of you with a soft spot for dogs will really enjoy it!

Allison Pittman is the author of the three books in the popular Crossroads of Grace series. Before her life as a novelist, Allison spent sixteen years teaching high school English. A founding member and copresident of the Christian Writer’s Group of the Greater San Antonio area, she devotes her time inspiring other writers to work toward their goals and sharpen their skills. Allison lives in Universal City, Texas with her husband Mike, their three sons, and Stella.

The publisher has graciously provided 2 copies to give away to you. Please leave a comment on this post by Friday (9/12) at 12:00 noon CDT, and I'll draw 2 winners that afternoon. (Continental US Residents only)

If you don't win one, you can fetch a copy of the book here.

Happy Reading!