The Last Will and Testament of an Extremely Distinguished Dog

by Eugene O'Neill

Book Overview

Renowned playwright Eugene O'Neill composed this work in 1940 to comfort his wife about the death of their Dalmatian, Blemie. Better known for his despairing and pessimistic dramas, O'Neill's touching piece, written in the voice of the dying pet, is somehow uplifting and joyous in its touching memory of a life shared between owner and animal. It is sure to comfort anyone experiencing the loss of a beloved, furry member of the family. This short work...

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1429096071
• ISBN13: 9781429096072
• Release Date: October 2014
• Publisher: Applewood Books
• Length: 24 Pages
• Weight: 0.22 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.3" x 4.3" x 6.8"

Customer Reviews

A touching tribute for dog lovers everywhere!

If you've ever loved a dog, you will connect on many levels with this exquisite book! I also recommend "August Magic" and "Heart of the Savannah" by Veronica Anne Starbuck as great reading for dog lovers!

Very moving, perfect for those missing their "best friend"

I was recently given this book by my sister-in-law after saying goodbye to my 14 year old corgi, Tommy. Tommy passed in my arms, and it has been very hard dealing with this loss. This book helped me realize the best way to deal with my pain was to celebrate his life rather than mourn his passing. This is the perfect book for anyone who has recently lost their old faithful pal. The book is short, but it is very moving. Be ready to cry.

An Excellent Gift

This was given to me when I said Goodbye to an extremely distinguished dog of my own. It was perfect, just what I needed. For anyone who has a beloved canine friend, this poignant essay, in this beautiful form, is a must have.

a gentle and moving tribute to a beloved companion

This book is a must-read for anyone who loves dogs, animals, people, life in general. O'Neill's tribute to his dog, Blemie, is full of humor, love, and not a bit of pathos. He puts into words (aptly illustrated by Yorinks) all that is felt and thought by anyone who has loved and lost (or simply loved) a dog. What a wonderful treat this was.

O'Neill's most important prize of all!

Eugene O'neill(1888-1953)was, and is,in the literary and theatrical arena a world-renowned figure.Had he been a baseball player he would be in the Hall of Fame. He was a four-time winner of the Pulitzer Prize, beginning in 1920 for Beyond the Horizon; in 1922 for Anna Christie; in 1928 for Strange Interlude; and again in 1956 for A Long Day's Journey into Night. He also won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1936. He is one of the crown jewels in American literature and Theater. Thus, it was with great interest that I recently received a copy of The Last Will and Testament of an Extremely Distinguished Dog. Quite frankly, while I naturally knew of O'neill, I had never heard of this book. It turns out it is a new edition of a book originally written by O'Neill in the 1940's as a tribute to his dog. Animal lovers, especially those with a particular affection for dogs, owe the publisher a great debt for reissuing this little known gem. Silverdene Emblem O'Neill-better known as Blemie-was a special Border collie that obviously captured the heart of O'Neill. In a moving and timeless elegy O'Neill clearly and compassionately describes the feelings of loss experienced by all true pet lover's when the death of a pet occurs.The pain is evident though O'Neill finds solace and comfort in remembering the joy,friendship and happiness he found with his friend.Those who have experienced the loyalty,love and friendship of a special dog will understand O'Neill's heartwarming tribute to Blemie.The message of love, friendship and caring will be an inspiration to all who have, or will, face the end of a special pet's life. I have read the book four times,not without tears, and still find a message of hope in this tender, special book. This is a wonderful, timeless, elegant book that will move you in ways you may have forgotten.It is bealutifully illustrated with twenty-five original hand-stitched quilts by award-winning quilt maker Adrienne Yorinks.While O'Neill will be remembered in the literary and theatrical world for his Pulitzer and Nobel Prizes, and rightfully so, I will always remember his most for his tribute to Blemie, his most important prize of all. Get this book, you'll be glad you did.