A heartwarming, true story about George, a rescue dog who helps his owner rediscover love and happiness. Marley & Me meets Tuesdays with Morrie and The Art of Racing in the Rain--get your tissues ready, animal lovers!
After Colin Campbell went on a short business trip abroad, he returned home to discover his wife of many years had moved out. No explanations. No second chances. She was gone and wasn’t coming back. Shocked and heartbroken, Colin fell into a spiral of depression and loneliness.
Soon after, a friend told Colin about a dog in need of rescue—a neglected 140-pound Newfoundland Landseer, a breed renowned for its friendly nature and remarkable swimming abilities. Colin adopted the traumatized dog, brought him home and named him George. Both man and dog were heartbroken and lacking trust, but together, they learned how to share a space, how to socialize, and most of all, how to overcome their bad experiences. At the same time, Colin relived childhood memories of his beloved grandfather, a decorated war hero and a man who gave him hope when he needed it most.
Then everything changed. Colin was offered a great new job in Los Angeles, California. He took George with him and the pair began a new life together on the sunny beaches around L.A. George became a fixture in his Hermosa Beach neighborhood, attracting attention and giving affection to everyone he met, warming hearts both young and old. Meanwhile, Colin headed to the beach to rekindle his love for surfing, but when George encountered the ocean and a surfboard for the first time, he did a surprising thing—he jumped right on the board. Through surfing, George and Colin began a life-altering adventure and a deep healing process that brought them back to life. As their story took them to exciting new heights, Colin learned how to follow George’s lead, discovering that he may have rescued George but that in the end, it was George who rescued him.
Free Days with George is an uplifting, inspirational story about the healing power of animals, and about leaving the past behind to embrace love, hope and happiness.

Colin Campbell is a retired teacher/librarian. He lives at the historic 108 Mile Ranch, in the heart of the Southern Cariboo region of British Columbia, surrounded by rolling hills, thousands of lakes and a wide range of recreational activities. He regularly explores, hikes, skis and bikes the routes featured in this book.

Colin Campbell's profile page

Free Days With George

by Karen Cook

Colin grew up in the town where I now live. I work in a library and first heard of this book from his beautiful mother. So I made sure the library was ordering copies. The first copy that arrived went to me. Not quite knowing what to expect, I was totally enthralled. First, I was impressed by Colin's writing ability. My heart melted reading his relationship with his beloved grandfather. Now I'm inspired to create "free days". Secondly, I personally related to his marriage break-up and the depression that follows. It can take a long time to find your way back to the self you were meant to be. And Colin did it, and how! As an animal lover, what can I possibly say about how much George entering Colin's life meant to me? Yes, I cried. My heart was so full as I read about their journey. When they arrived in California, I felt as if I were there again, smelling that incredible salt air. And I fell in love with George. This is not "just a book". It's a guide to improving your own life. A guide to understanding what really matters in life. I've become a better person after reading Colin's book. It will live on in my heart and soul, forever!