When R. W. Holt's dad brought Chu Chu home, the shy young man was understandably a little concerned. Chu Chu was a chow chow, a Chinese temple dog with a dominating disposition, and the Holts already had an older dog who might not take to the new puppy. As Holt came to know Chu Chu, however, the two embarked on a life-changing friendship.
Chu Chu dominated every aspect of Holt's life. They walked together, played together, and slept together. Chu Chu offered protection and friendship, while expecting no less in return from his human. The massive dog even influenced Holt's love life, forcing him to choose between the girl of his dreams and his devoted best friend.
A tale of trust, commitment, and unconditional love, Lion on a Leash isn't a tale of a dog and his master-it's a story of two friends who form a bond strong enough to last a lifetime. As Holt notes, it's easy to love a chow. It's hard to be loved by one.
By the time the reader has finished the book, he should have a tear in his eye, a smile on his face, and a dog in his arms.