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Reviewed by Mansoor Ahmed for Readers' Favorite
Serving the Leftovers is a heartfelt memoir about one woman’s journey into the world of animal rescue. Alysia Dubriske takes readers through her life, beginning with personal trauma and emotional struggles, and finding healing and purpose through caring for neglected and abandoned dogs, especially Pekingese. With humor, grit, and vulnerability, she shares the ups and downs of rescuing animals while balancing a career, relationships, and personal loss. The story is told in vivid, relatable moments, from burying beloved pets to fostering entire litters, and gradually building a sanctuary of her own. It’s more than just stories about dogs—it’s about love, service, heartbreak, and finding strength through giving back.
The writing in Serving the Leftovers is clear, personal, and full of heart. Alysia Dubriske brings her experiences to life with humor and honesty, blending sorrow and joy in a way that feels both real and uplifting. The narrative unfolds through a series of moments that build a deep connection between the reader and the dogs she rescues. The pace is easy to follow, with a rhythm that mirrors the emotional highs and lows of rescue work. The author’s ability to show the unique personality of each dog, along with her emotional growth, makes the people and animals feel genuine and memorable. There’s a strong sense of purpose in each chapter, exploring themes like second chances, healing, and the bond between humans and animals. Dubriske doesn’t sugarcoat the hard parts of rescue work, but her warmth and humor balance the heaviness. This book is moving and deeply compassionate—ideal for anyone who has ever loved a pet or looked for meaning in unexpected places
