It’s similar to ours in a way, and that in itself is interesting. In the book, Dion also gives background on his upbringing and how he (and his wife, Lucja) got into running. What’s not to love – a true story by a fellow trail runner about racing, exploring new places and cultures – and rescuing a cute and loyal pup from the streets of China? I kept thinking “wow, this will make a good film” – and the good news is, the film rights have been bought so this could become a reality. When I heard that Dion had written a book about Finding Gobi, I couldn’t wait to read it. What I didn’t know was the other half of the story – how exactly did Dion find Gobi and what did he go through for the love of a stray dog? I’d followed Dion and Gobi’s story on social media and had been gutted for him when his little pal went missing while he was making arrangements for her to be brought home. However, getting her back was not an easy task, especially when she went missing… Background But he vowed to bring little Gobi back to a forever-home.

The story will appeal to any reader with an interest in dogs or tales of adventure and survival sports.The race ended, and Dion had to return home to Scotland. This is an extraordinary true story, told in language that is clear and simple enough for the youngest children to access, but engaging enough for older children to enjoy, also. He found himself battling cultural differences, language barriers and red tape, but also finding many kind friends on the other side of the world, who helped him when the little dog he had fallen in love with went unexpectedly missing – perhaps kidnapped. However, the race itself was just the beginning of the challenges Dion faced when he decided to adopt the little dog – whom he named Gobi – and take her home to Edinburgh. The tiny dog had enormous spirit and character, and seemed to want to run alongside him wherever he went. Ultra-marathon runner Dion Leonard had tackled many gruelling races in his life, but when he was joined by a small, stray dog on his trek across the harsh Gobi desert, his life changed forever.

Gobi dog book