The Wonder of Lost Causes

The Wonder of Lost Causes is the sixth book by British-born American veterinary surgeon and author, Dr. Nick Trout. The dog is ugly, a big, black Heinz 57+ mutt, a neutered male, definitely no pup, and when he arrives at the shelter, he is liberally scarred, and missing some toes and teeth. The chip says he is from Wellfleet, and his name is Lucky. But he has been on the receiving end of abuse, that much is clear.

The shelter vet, Dr. Kate Blunt, is concerned about his behaviour: detached and skittish. But as soon as he sees Kate's eleven-year-old son, Jasper, the change in his demeanour is radical. They seem to be entranced by each other. And Jasper insists his name is Whistler: the dog has told him that.

The nonprofit Massachusetts chain runs limited animal shelters: the dogs can only stay for fourteen days once they are evaluated as suitable. Whistler turns out to be a serial run away, and he has a lung problem, so his prospects for adoption aren't good. And Jasper is the only one he responds to.

Kate Blunt is a single mother, and her whole focus is necessarily on Jasper, because the boy was born with Cystic Fibrosis. Jasper has always wanted a dog, and Kate has always said no: their apartment complex is "no pets" and Jasper's unpredictable hospital stays are just two of the reasons it can't happen. But Whistler? Jasper feels a connection so strong, he has to do all he can to change Kate's mind. Jasper has a plan. And maybe Whistler does too…

The narrative alternates between Kate and Jasper giving different perspectives on what occurs. If readers believe they can predict where the story is going, they are in for a few surprises. What might be predictable is the odd lump in the throat. Trout's familiarity with his animal subjects is apparent on every page, ensuring that Whistler stars as much as the humans.

Trout's characters are easily believable, very humanly flawed and therefore appealing. The way Trout deals with Kate's dilemma: prolong Jasper's life or allow him to enjoy it, is sensitive and insightful. Jasper's uncanny radar for Kate's concern and worry is quite credible.

Jasper's youth and innocence allows him to simply accept his newfound ability as a gift, and he rationalises it with childlike logic. Anyone who has read about the amazing abilities that animals have to tune in to seemingly undetectable changes will have no trouble with his connection with Whistler. As well as showcasing the good work of service dogs and animal shelters, this is a heart-warming and uplifting story: recommended feel-good reading.

This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by Allen & Unwin.