There are plenty of writers out there who have made their living from detailing stories of the connection between dogs and their owners, but few – if any – possess the same prowess in portraying complexity, tenderness, and beauty as Markus Zusak.

Three Wild Dogs and the Truth is a kind of combination memoir: a biography of the eponymous three dogs, yes, but also a chronicle of some pivotal years in the life of the author and his family, as they grappled with the success of The Book Thief (2005) and he struggled to write Bridge of Clay (2018). In between early morning walks, midday scuffles, and late-night vet visits, we learn about Zusak’s wife, Mika (the ‘other half of his writing business’), bear witness to the arrival of his children and watch them grow up, and view the workings of his creative process. Throughout, his narrative style never falters. Like the best magicians, his pacing is impeccable, ensuring that the punchline – or bitter pill – lands exactly where it should.

However, the dogs are, of course, the stars. Through Zusak’s prose, Rueben, Archer, and Frosty come to life: sometimes fearsome, sometimes tragic, but always forces of nature. Although he writes of the difficulty of loving them at times – acknowledging that love is not always kind nor easy – the affection with which he writes is apparent, and deeply contagious. Beware this book if you don’t like becoming attached – and make sure to keep a tissue or two on hand.

Zusak is self-aware about his tendency to be very inwardly critical, but reading this book felt deeply personal and intimate, like being told a story by a close friend – emotional, funny, and serious all at once. It’s a perfect read for dog lovers, fans of his work, and everyone else as well. Take a look.