by Dave Hunter

• Non-Fiction
• Pets
• Film & Cinema

Finding Greyfriars Bobby is a heart-warming story about the young stray dog from the Isle of Lewis who was chosen to star in Disney’s 1961 film Greyfriars Bobby, based on Eleanor Atkinson’s book and the true story — or legends — surrounding the famous dog in Edinburgh. 

The novel follows Dave Hunter after he discovers that the dog his family once looked after following the filming of Greyfriars Bobby is buried on land that is now due to be developed into a housing estate. After contacting the landowner and helping to delay the development, Hunter begins a mission to find the grave of the famous dog and bring him home. 

I was really interested in this book after hearing Greyfriars Bobby’s wonderful story during visits to Edinburgh. I don’t think I’ve ever watched the 1961 film, but thankfully, it isn’t necessary to have seen it to understand or enjoy this novel. If anything, reading this book has left me wanting to watch the film for myself! 

This novel is truly heart-warming and such a lovely read. I quickly became invested in Hunter’s ‘hunt’ (mind the pun!) for his old family dog. There were plenty of twists and turns along the way, and I found myself not wanting to put the book down because I was desperate to find out what would happen next and, ultimately, whether he would find Bobby. 

One of the loveliest things about this novel is the way it brings people together. An unlikely group of friends is formed through their shared connection to Bobby and their common goal, and their friendship is genuinely heart-warming to watch develop. There is something really special about seeing people from completely different walks of life come together for a shared cause. 

The whole novel is told from Dave’s point of view, and he goes into great detail about his research and the different stages of the search. Despite the amount of detail, the story never feels boring or bogged down in information. Instead, it made me feel as though I was alongside him as the search unfolded, piecing together the clues and discovering more about Bobby’s story. 

I would recommend Finding Greyfriars Bobby to anyone who has heard of the story of Greyfriars Bobby, anyone who has watched and loved the 1961 Disney film, or simply anyone who loves a good dog story. It is a truly memorable and heart-warming read, and one that has definitely made me want to learn more about Bobby’s story and finally watch the film!