Part travelogue, part valentine to a beloved pet, Ella in Europe chronicles writer Michael Konik's magical six-week journey through Europe with his dog, Ella. An homage to the friend who has "licked away my tears when I'm sad, hopped on her hind legs when I'm happy, and snuggled me when I'm lonely," here is the story of a bond unlike any other-and an extraordinary dog who stole her way into one man's heart. Los Angeles writer Michael Konik had always shared his life with dogs. But Ella, a gentle Lab mix, was something special. From the moment Konik laid eyes on Ella, he knew: This dog was meant to be his. An enchantress who charmed all who met her, Ella Guinevere Konik had a truly unique gift-and soon Konik found a way for Ella to share that gift, signing her up for a program that brings dogs into hospitals, nursing homes, and children's shelters. When Ella turned ten, Konik wanted to thank the "best friend" whose unconditional love had transformed his life-and given comfort and joy to others in need. So a trip to Europe was planned-and for Konik and Ella a once-in-a-lifetime adventure began, one that would strengthen the already-powerful bond between them. As they explore Europe's most beautiful-and surprisingly dog-friendly-cities, Konik is amazed at the experiences he and Ella can share . . . Arriving in Vienna on July Fourth with Ella wrapped in her American flag scarf . . . Dining at four-star restaurants in Paris . . . Ella swimming in the Danube . . . Taking a gondola ride in Venice . . . Sunbathing in St. Tropez . . . Searching for a canine toilet in Monte Carlo. But soon this journey of friendship, love, and discovery must come to a close. And as Konik heads home, accompanied by the canine friend who "helped teach me what love means," one thing is certain: Both dog and owner have been changed forever. At once a testament to the power of unconditional love and a celebration of devotion, Ella in Europe is a book for anyone who has ever felt a special connection to a dog they've loved.
A moving tale about a man and his elegant canine bestfriend
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
This book is more than a beautiful tale about a charming man and his elegant canine bestfriend, Ella, and their adventure together in the most exciting places in Europe. This would have been reason enough to be completely satisfied with this book, however, it is also moving story about an extraordinary friendship and loyalty. The loyalty Ella has to her master is endearing but what is more moving to me is the author's loyalty to his bestfriend. I laughed. I was fascinated. I was deeply moved. I highly recommend this book not only to dog lovers but also to those who are a fan of friendship, loyalty, beauty and life.
Fabulous!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
Miss Ella is my new hero. She got to go all around Europe with a handsome escort to show her the sites. What a diva. There were times in this story when I was simultaenously laughing and crying. It was like a good movie in parts. I could definitely see it up there on the silver screen with Ella playing herself and Ben Affleck playing her owner. Ella is not a lap dog in any way which is probably fortunate. She comes across as calm and that helped, I'm sure. This is a fabulous story that anyone who cares about a pet is going to enjoy.
My kids love it!
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
I'm torn between taking this book and just finishing it and reading it one chapter at a time w. my two boys, 6 & 8. We're all enjoying a slow weekly trip to the continent with Ella and Michael, and learning a lot about dogs, families, friendships and cultures along the way. I don't know if I'll be able to say "no" to the annual request to get a dog when we're finished with this tale (no pun intended). I thought we got a travel book, but we got much more.
Better Than Dog Kisses
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 19 years ago
Ella in Europe is about dreams coming true, and in this case the dream is the author's ambition to bring his Therapy Dog to Europe with him for a summer where she can be treated like a member of the family. What I loved about this book was that it wasn't cutesy or gushy. I also liked that unlike some other dog books I've bought the author didn't actually make the dog have dialog, like it could talk like a human. It's very well written and easy to read. I think even my Maltese Ginger could understand it. Most of all anyone who likes dogs will understand where the author is coming from. Highly reccommended.
Heartwarming and Funny
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 20 years ago
Like the author I have had dogs in my life from a very early age and I have always appreciated the good things that they bring to life. I have a black lab mix (Porter) who I have always wanted to take with me on trips. Ella's travels in Europe are something that many dog people would like to do but don't because of cost or logistics. It's fun to read about a dog-lover who actually did what all of us wish about doing. I laughed out loud many times during this easy to read book. My Porter does some of the same things Ella does, like standing in between stranger's legs for attention and kissing when asked. I also shed a tear or two. This is a very moving book. I recommend it to anyone who has ever loved a dog. Warning: Some of the pictures are EXTREMELY CUTE!
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