“Marley and Me,” written by John Grogan, touched my heart as well as many others who have read this hilarious, heart-warming novel. Grogan tells the story of a couple with high hopes for their careers, relationship and family. With the dream of having a baby in the near future, John and Jenny question how prepared they really are for the journey they are about to embark on.

As a result of inner doubts and nerves, a hasty decision comes about to buy a dog as a way of preparing for a child. Throughout the journey of ups and downs, and some more downs, Grogan shows how John and Jenny overcome their fears and conquer what they thought they never could. The character development in this novel is very significant and obvious. Not only do the characters in “Marley and Me” develop and grow individually, but the relationship between this young couple and “The Worst Dog Ever,” grows a significant amount as well.

Tears, happiness and even more tears are shed along their crazy ride. The story of the hardships and happy times is written in such a way that relating to it is surprisingly easy to do. Grogan wrote “Marley and Me” in such a way that almost every action, reaction and events to follow are in the most way realistic. The emotions, characters and the emotions that the reader acquires are very real, making the book very easy to relate to and get attached to so quickly.

The love-hate relationship between the out-of-control puppy and almost every person he meets is bound to touch anyones heart who reads Grogan’s story. This novel is one that will never make you cry so much and laugh so hard all in one. Although predictable and somewhat cliche, “Marley and Me” will touch your heart more than any novel ever has.The chronicles of Marley’s puppyhood all the way to his last few breaths is told in a unique way that was very pleasing and easy to follow along as well as read a significant amount in one sitting.

Just as John said, “A person can learn a lot from a dog, even a loopy one like ours. Marley taught me about living each day with unbridled exuberance and joy, about seizing the moment and following your heart. He taught me to appreciate the simple things…mostly, he taught me about friendship and selflessness, and above all else, unwavering loyalty.”

That is exactly what this novel teaches each and every reader as well. Grogan gives an outstanding message and leaves the reader in a state of self reflection at the end of reading his novel. I recommend this touching novel to everyone and anyone looking for a heart-warming experience about a love-hate relationship between a newly wedded couple and the “Worst Dog Ever.”