The Dog Stars

The Dog Stars cover
Good Books rating 4.18

Technical:
  • ID: 1175
  • Added: 2025-09-27
  • Updated: 2025-09-27
  • ISBN: 9780307950475
  • Publisher: National Geographic Books
  • Published: 2013-05-07
  • Reviews: 3

Hig is one of the few survivors of a devastating flu pandemic that has wiped out most of humanity. Living in the hangar of an abandoned airport with his dog, Jasper, and a volatile companion named Bangley, Hig's life is a delicate balance of survival and isolation. The story is not just about enduring the harsh realities of a post-apocalyptic world but also about the deep bonds of friendship and loyalty that sustain him. When a random radio transmission offers a glimmer of hope, Hig embarks on a perilous journey that challenges his understanding of the world and what remains of humanity. The Dog Stars is a poignant exploration of hope, survival, and the human spirit. It delves into the complexities of relationships in a world where trust is scarce and every decision could mean life or death. Hig's journey is both physical and emotional, as he grapples with the loss of his past life and the uncertain future that lies ahead. The novel masterfully blends action and introspection, creating a compelling narrative that resonates with themes of resilience and the enduring power of connection.

Reviews
Fantasy Book Review · 2025-09-27
enjoyable 4.55

The reviewer enjoyed the book's well-written and thoughtful narrative, finding it to be one of the best types of post-apocalyptic fiction.

The reviewer at Fantasy Book Review praised The Dog Stars for its well-written and thoughtful narrative, noting that it is one of the best types of post-apocalyptic fiction. They appreciated the book's unrushed voice and the deep metaphors and allusions woven into the story. The reviewer found the book's exploration of love, loss, and survival to be particularly compelling, making it a standout in the genre.


Quick quotes

    The Dog Stars is the type of post apocalyptic fiction I enjoy to read most.

    It is written very well, in a thoughtful and unrushed voice that bears comparison...

    A true literary masterpiece.

Kelley Rose Waller's Blog · Kelley Rose Waller · 2018-09-12
refreshing 4.00

The reviewer found the book refreshing and engaging, praising its unique voice and storytelling. They appreciated the thoughtful and unrushed narrative style.

Kelley Rose Waller found The Dog Stars to be a refreshing read, highlighting the book's unique voice and engaging storytelling. She particularly enjoyed the thoughtful and unrushed narrative style, which made the post-apocalyptic setting feel immersive. Waller also noted that the book's themes of love, loss, and survival resonated deeply with her, making it a standout in the genre.


Quick quotes

    I'm flying through books, and it's entirely refreshing.

    The Dog Stars by Peter Heller was another recommendation from whatshouldireadnext.com.

    It is written very well, in a thoughtful and unrushed voice that bears comparison...

She Reads Novels · 2012-09-07
gripping 4.00

The reviewer found the book to be a gripping story that explores themes of love, loss, and survival in a post-apocalyptic world.

The reviewer at She Reads Novels described The Dog Stars as a gripping story that effectively explores themes of love, loss, and survival in a post-apocalyptic world. They appreciated the book's rolling rhythmic poetic prose and the deep metaphors and allusions that enrich the narrative. The reviewer found the story to be truly gripping and emotionally resonant, making it a memorable read.


Quick quotes

    A true literary masterpiece.

    Rolling rhythmic poetic prose, deep metaphors and allusions, all woven into a truly gripping story.

    That speaks of love, loss, and...