Dion Leonard is an Australian/British ultra runner who competes around the globe in endurance ultra running events ranging from 100 miles to over 240 miles in some of the most extreme conditions known to man. He has numerous top 10 finishes in some of the toughest races on the planet. An international bestselling author with 5 books in over 21 languages; Dion’s story has been featured on CNN, NBC Today Show, Good Morning Britain, CBS, CNBC, ABC America, Associated Press, ESPN, Pickler and Ben, CCTV, BBC, and many others. Dion is an inspirational speaker, animal welfare advocate and raises money and awareness for animals in need.
I wrote...
Finding Gobi: A Little Dog with a Very Big Heart
By
Dion Leonard
What is my book about?
Finding Gobi is the miraculous tale of Dion Leonard, an ultramarathon runner who crosses paths with a stray dog while competing in a 155-mile race through the Gobi Desert in China. The lovable pup, who would later earn the name Gobi, proved that what she lacked in size, she more than made up for in heart, as she went step for step with Dion keeping pace with him for 77 miles. As Dion witnessed the incredible determination and heart of this small animal, he found his own heart undergoing a change as well. Whereas in the past these races were all about winning and being the best, his goal now was to make sure he and Gobi's friendship continued well after the finish line. However, before he could take her home, Gobi went missing in the sprawling Chinese city where she was being kept. Dion, with the help of strangers and a viral outpouring of assistance on the internet, set out to track her down, and reunite forever with the amazing animal that changed his life and proved to him and the world that miracles are possible.
When you buy a book we may earn a small commission.
The Books I Picked & Why
Arthur: The Dog Who Crossed the Jungle to Find a Home
By
Mikael Lindnord
Why this book?
An emotional story that talks about bravery, hope, and loyalty. During an adventure race through the jungle of Ecuador in South America, a Swedish race team lead by Mikael Lindnord befriends a mangy, but determined dog. The dog (Arthur) joins the team and their adventure begins. In the end, the team saves the dog. But, as is so often the case in these animal/people encounters, it is the dog who becomes the quiet hero and ultimately saves the human.
When you buy a book we may earn a small commission.
A Street Cat Named Bob and How He Saved My Life
By
James Bowen
Why this book?
A fascinating story about two unlikely comrades, who, in their own way, save each other. James Bowen, the Author, is a London street performer (a busker), who earns a living playing his guitar. He's a recovering drug addict, who struggles to stay focused and clean. Bob is a homeless Ginger Cat who James finds injured in his apartment building and takes to the vet. James spends most of cash-on-hand to get antibiotics to treat Bob's wounds, and this act of kindness and sacrifice is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. You'll come to care about them both very quickly and you'll really hope that everything turns out well for both of them. James tells his story in very blunt terms, about dealing with addiction and trying to turn his life around.
When you buy a book we may earn a small commission.
Penguin Bloom: The Odd Little Bird Who Saved a Family
By
Cameron Bloom,
Bradley Trevor Greive
Why this book?
Cameron Bloom, his wife Sam, and their three boys were a normal, happy family - until a near-fatal fall left Sam paralysed and she sank into a deep depression. But in the darkest days of Sam's struggle a new and unexpected member of the family came into their lives: an injured magpie chick abandoned after she fell from her nest, who became known as Penguin Bloom.
The Blooms rescued Penguin, and in return, she saved them in ways they could not have imagined. As her damaged little chick grew into a strong and beautiful bird, Sam found a joy and strength of her own. This is a wonderful true story of courage, love, commitment, and inspiration.
When you buy a book we may earn a small commission.
Craig & Fred: A Marine, a Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other
By
Craig Grossi
Why this book?
This is the uplifting and unforgettable true story of a US Marine, the stray dog he met on an Afghan battlefield, and how they saved each other. While on patrol, Craig spotted a young dog "with a big goofy head and little legs" who didn’t seem vicious or run in a pack like most strays he’d encountered. After eating a piece of beef jerky Craig offered—against military regulations—the dog began to follow him. What follows is a very moving and loving homage to the dog named Fred and to his fellow vets that was very heartfelt. The length he goes to bring Fred home to the USA from Afghanistan was so sweet and the fact that Fred not only helped him with PTSD but also gave Craig a deeper purpose for his life is truly inspirational.
When you buy a book we may earn a small commission.
Nala's World: One Man, His Rescue Cat, and a Bike Ride Around the Globe
By
Dean Nicholson,
Garry Jenkins
Why this book?
Nala's adventure shows how the love of an animal can change the trajectory of a man's life. Dean set out to explore the world on his bike. Along the way he met and fell head over wheels (!) with a kitten, whom he named Nala. Something about the piercing eyes and plaintive meowing of the bedraggled little cat proved irresistible. He couldn't leave her to her fate, so he put her on his bike and then, with the help of local vets, nursed her back to health. Soon on his travels, they forged an unbreakable bond -- both curious, independent, resilient and adventurous.
