“Years later, after other experiences with dogs, I wondered if their species were shaped and charmed to serve as four-legged guides able to assist in leading humanity back to our first—and lost—home. By the example of their joy and humility, by wanting nothing more than food and play and love, by the deep satisfaction that they take from those humble things, they belie all creeds of power and fame. Although they have the teeth to tear, it is by swish of tail and yearning eyes that they most easily get what they want.”

American author

Dean Ray Koontz is an American author, known for suspense thrillers and, more broadly, for fiction that often blends horror, fantasy, science fiction, mystery, and satire. He has published more than 105 novels and many novellas and short story collections. Many of his books have reached The New York Times Best Seller list, including fourteen hardcovers and sixteen paperbacks that rose to number one. Earlier in his career, he also wrote under several pen names, and his work has sold more than 500 million copies. Rolling Stone described him as “America's most popular suspense novelist.”