My Buddy Bali: A Tourist in Kisses and Tears (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9798896864981)

At first glance, this story may appear like many others you have likely read before. The language, the tone, and the sentence structure may seem repetitive and predictable. Or perhaps the little black box of Noam Chomsky1 could have generated original content (others may think). That is to say, this is a possibility, although writers keep repeating the same limited number of words (in the English lan-guage) all the time. Moreover, you might be assuming I am about to recount a tale similar to one you have already read. However, one crucial aspect sets this story apart from all the rest of the fantasy or science-fiction stories you have read or will ever read in the future.

The unique element of this story, akin to each living being's distinct pupils and fingers-or-nose prints, is that two of the main characters are based on a factual person and her puppy (these are not fictional). Billy, lovingly known as Ba-li, was Dr. Tatiana's constant furry companion. There was no moment in Tatiana's life when Bali was not at her side. Whether having a meal, taking a walk in the park, running errands, going to appointments, or even going to sleep, Bali was always there. Woefully, in reality and fantasy, Bali's fate mirrored each other. In his mischievous way, he slipped from Tatiana's loving home and arms to embark on a journey to a faraway dimension.

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My Buddy Bali is an account of the adventures of a loner Corgi puppy named Bali. His owners care dearly about him but ignore him for most of the day. So, Bali became industrious in escaping from his yard, yearning to be free to find action. Whenever he gets free from his confinement, Bali becomes involved in unusual experiences.

The setting is 2051 in Toronto, Canada. The effects of climate change have altered seasonal temperatures. The winter months are mild and almost snowless. Emergency vehicles are more efficient, and automobiles use alternative fuel sources. Drones and androids are part of top-of-the-line security systems. Yet, it is interesting to note that the cost of advanced technology causes some users to shut them off.

The author has a unique style of writing. For instance, he uses the word riposte instead of reply and pays great attention to not repeating his exact linking words. The story moves back and forth between years. One must pay attention to the plot as Bali's circumstances change depending on the year. When the book opens in 2051, he is a seven-and-one-half-month-old puppy. In later chapters, Bali is in the year 2042. We do not learn how this happened until later in the book. It is an interesting twist for the curious who will read the entire book.

The story is pure fantasy (with some magical realism), a book to read mainly for entertainment. However, it touches on Climate change, dogs' bonding, social struggles, problems with the so-called progress, and coping when losing a loved one.

The imaginative technology seems possible, and the author makes the futuristic occurrences believable. The human element in advanced technology development exhibits the darker side of research. Envy, theft, spying, and worse are ploys used. This section of the book is serious and in contrast to the happy antics of the puppy Bali. My Buddy Bali is an action narrative with fantasy and fantastical events, and it will entertain teenagers, those fond of dogs, and young adults of all ages would appreciate it.