By The Book Reviews

Review by By The Books Reviewer

Isabel Klee's memoir, "Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I've Cried About," is a candid exploration of her tumultuous twenties in New York City, interwoven with her profound experiences in dog rescue. ([goodreads.com](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239926949-dogs-boys-and-other-things-i-ve-cried-about?from_choice=false&from_home_module=false%5C&utm_source=openai)) Klee's narrative oscillates between the chaotic world of fleeting romances and the steadfast companionship of her canine charges, offering readers a multifaceted glimpse into her journey of self-discovery.

Klee's writing shines when she delves into her passion for rehabilitating rescue dogs. Her accounts of fostering over 35 dogs, including the epileptic puppy Simon who becomes her anchor, are both heartwarming and enlightening. ([kpbs.org](https://www.kpbs.org/news/2026/05/03/isabel-klees-new-memoir-explores-the-realities-of-dog-rescue?utm_source=openai)) These stories not only highlight the challenges and rewards of dog rescue but also underscore the therapeutic bond between humans and animals. As one reviewer aptly noted, "That's the magic of dogs. The simple unrelenting magic is that they don't even have to try. They heal just by existing." ([goodreads.com](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239926949?utm_source=openai))

However, the memoir's exploration of Klee's romantic entanglements is less compelling. The repetitive nature of her relationships, characterized by a series of unfulfilling encounters, lacks the depth and introspection that would make these narratives resonate. As Kirkus Reviews pointedly observed, "Klee’s boyfriends seem to live in and for themselves, and she doesn’t come off so well herself." ([kirkusreviews.com](https://www.kirkusreviews.com/book-reviews/isabel-klee/dogs-boys-and-other-things-ive-cried-about/?utm_source=openai)) This aspect of the memoir feels underdeveloped and fails to provide the same emotional impact as her canine tales.

Structurally, the memoir occasionally suffers from a disjointed timeline, which can disrupt the narrative flow. Some readers have found the jumps in chronology to be momentarily confusing, though not detracting significantly from the overall experience. ([goodreads.com](https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/239926949?utm_source=openai))

In conclusion, while "Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I've Cried About" offers poignant insights into the world of dog rescue and the healing power of animals, its exploration of human relationships falls short. Readers seeking a heartfelt account of canine companionship will find much to appreciate, but those looking for a profound examination of personal relationships may be left wanting.

Final recommendation: Read with caution.

Recommendation: Read with caution.

written on: 5/7/2026