Cowboy & Wills
A Love Story
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5.0 • 7 Ratings
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- $11.99
Publisher Description
Christened “charming” and “winning” by the Washington Post and “touching” by Publishers Weekly, this deeply moving memoir by celebrated author Monica Holloway tells the unforgettable true story of an extraordinary little boy with autism spectrum disorder and the irresistible puppy who transformed his life.
The day Monica Holloway learns that her lovable, brilliant three-year-old son has autism spectrum disorder (ASD), she takes him to buy an aquarium. But what Wills really wants is a puppy. From the moment Cowboy Carol Lawrence—an affectionate, high-spirited golden retriever—joins the family, Monica watches as her cautious son begins to step more confidently into the world.
With his new “sister” by his side, Wills finds the courage to invite children over for playdates, confront his fear of water, and finally sleep in his own bed, comforted by the puppy’s steady presence. As Cowboy proves to need her family as much as they need her, they discover the profound emotional support, companionship, and unconditional love that a dog can provide a child with special needs.
A heartfelt memoir about autism, family resilience, therapy dogs, and the life-changing bond between a child and a pet, this inspiring true story celebrates devotion, loyalty, and the unexpected ways healing can begin.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
When Holloway learned that her son had autistic spectrum disorder she turned to pets, from hermit crabs to hamsters to Ruby the Rabbit, rather than give up hope on reaching her son Wills, so traumatized by sensory overload that even a bath is an excruciating experience: hurtful bubbles followed the water's horrifying disappearance down the drain. Eventually Cowboy, a puppy with golden hair to match Wills's, arrives to bring the Holloways their first shining moments of progress: "Cowboy was... leading Wills into the world of his peers" Touching moments dot the narrative, but it avoids sentiment much as Wills would if telling his own story; at no time is the story overwhelmed by the inherent adorability of its subjects. Though readers may end up starved for intimacy, it mimics Holloway's own struggle-loving a child outwardly unable of returning it-and heightens his moments of connection.
Customer Reviews
Endless Love, Joy & Hope
Having a Husband & Child living on the spectrum myself I had been reading book after book trying to find that "one" that undeniably held true to my life & heart, one I can find solace in reading knowing I wasn't alone in the world with my very average family, house, dog & life. This book is undoubtedly easy for me to relate too through the fears, tears, ups & downs and even my OCD issues. Thank you for sharing your world in such a moving, beautifully written way!