The Dog Who Could Fly

The Incredible True Story of a WWII Airman and the Four-Legged Hero Who Flew at His Side

By: Damien Lewis

Narrated by: Derek Perkins

Length: 9 hrs and 2 mins

Publisher's summary

An instant hit in the UK, this is the true account of a German shepherd who was adopted by the Royal Air Force during World War II, joined in flight missions, and survived everything from crash-landings to parachute bailouts - ultimately saving the life of his owner and dearest friend. In the winter of 1939 in the cold snow of no-man's-land, two loners met and began an extraordinary journey that would turn them into lifelong friends. One was an orphaned puppy, abandoned by his owners as they fled Nazi forces. The other was a different kind of lost soul - a Czech airman bound for the Royal Air Force and the country that he would come to call home.

Airman Robert Bozdech stumbled across the tiny German shepherd - whom he named Ant - after being shot down on a daring mission over enemy lines. Unable to desert his charge, Robert hid Ant inside his jacket as he escaped. In the months that followed, the pair would save each other's lives countless times as they flew together with Bomber Command. And though Ant was eventually grounded due to injury, he refused to abandon his duty, waiting patiently beside the runway for his master's return from every sortie, and refusing food and sleep until they were reunited. By the end of the war Robert and Ant had become British war heroes, and Ant was justly awarded the Dickin Medal, the "Animal VC".

©2013 Damien Lewis (P)2014 Tantor

Highly recommended!

A great story, especially if you are a dog lover. It shows clearly the bond between a person and their dog. Amazing stories. Worth the credit!

Finally, a dog story that did not make me cry

This is a good thing. It is a gripping story, not a "tearjerker ". The bond between man and dog is portrayed at its most intense.

Fantastic.

As a dog lover this story was incredible. Highly recommended. The last few chapters are tough so he prepared.

Could Have Been A Great Story...

Would you recommend this book to a friend? Why or why not?

I wouldn't recommend this book to a friend. I realize that WWII was a long time ago and a lot has changed about how good owners care for their animals, but I just kept thinking that the dog's owner was very irresponsible. I also didn't like the way the author told us what the dog was thinking. I have dogs. I train dogs. I believe dogs live in the moment and I don't think many of the thoughts the author attributed to the dog are realistic.

How would you have changed the story to make it more enjoyable?

The author gave the dog dialog like he was a human. I would've liked the story better without that.

Which scene was your favorite?

I don't think I had a favorite scene.

Was The Dog Who Could Fly worth the listening time?

No. I did finish it, but there are a lot of books I certainly would've enjoyed a lot more.

Any additional comments?

The author says in the preface that as much as possible he used the manuscript that was actually written by the main character. If you've ever read any of Albert Payson Terhune's books, I felt like this was written in that kind of style (Super hero dog, out-thinking the humans, saves the day over and over. Irresponsible owner allows the dog to run wild, savage the farmer's sheep, etc. and almost loses him several times because of the owner's irresponsibility). I think the story is interesting, it's just unfortunate the way it was written...

ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

Without a doubt and already have!

Who was your favorite character and why?

Of course the dog, but they were all great. It was so nice to see how the flight guys were so close and loved each other so much.

Any additional comments?

Best Non Fiction book I've listened to in a LONG time.

Best audiobook ever!

A good book on a man and his ever loyal dog. I recommend it to anyone who likes a good dog story

Every dog lovers book

This is such great story and will remind everyone who has ever loved a dog just why they love them. And for those that have not experienced this love what a special and unbreakable bond awaits them if they just let one into their lives.

I love stories about animals & human relationship

If you could sum up The Dog Who Could Fly in three words, what would they be?

Men pushed to the limit of humanity can keep hope alive when a dog becomes part of their party

I loved these two WWII heroes

Would you recommend this audiobook to a friend? If so, why?

I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who loves animals and the soldiers who fought in the war. Robert is a true example of the brave and fearless who risked their lives for family and nation.

What other book might you compare The Dog Who Could Fly to and why?

If you enjoyed The boys in the boat, you'll like this one too. It's about the same period and has the same style of writing.

What does Derek Perkins bring to the story that you wouldn’t experience if you just read the book?

I liked his pacing and the various voices he did.

Was this a book you wanted to listen to all in one sitting?

I wanted this one to last a long time because I loved the people. The men who flew those missions were truly part of the greatest generation.

Any additional comments?

Now that I've finished the book, I find myself aching to hear more about Robert and his dog.

If you like dogs, you'll love this book!!!

Be prepared to enjoy true love between man and dog. WW II is a dramatic backdrop for this heartwarming epic.