"Ozzy: A Smile for a While" by Ibrahim Selman

 

Ibrahim Selman, Ozzy: A Smile for a While. Self-published, 2024

The book club discussed this novel on July 1, 2025.

From the publisher:

Losing your dog is deeply sorrowful—just as heartbreaking as losing a beloved human. Family dramas play out in the shadow of cultural fears. Political and religious oppression cast their long shadows. Will unconditional love triumph, or will it falter? Humor and sarcasm offer a brief reprieve from the pain.

With the final drive to the veterinary clinic to say goodbye to the cherished dog, Ozzy, the narrator embarks on a journey through the tangled labyrinth of his mind. This journey spans more than a century, weaving together family histories and the political and religious conflicts that continue to plague the Middle East. Heavy themes are lightened and given perspective through a humorously sarcastic lens.

The narrator’s cultural background lends the story added depth and educational value. The interactions and conflicts between the characters, enriched by their unique family histories and cultural identities, make the narrative dynamic, thought-provoking, and full of “aha” moments. The exploration of loss—be it the loss of a pet, freedom, or ideals—offers readers existential and reflective layers to delve into.

Book club discussion

The author, who was present for the discussion, explained that it’s mostly autobiographical. Ozzy was a real dog who died. “I didn’t understand the feelings of the animals before, but Ozzy had the same emotions, and every day I wondered how dumb I had been. Every day I discovered new things with that small dog. Six months after his death, I still couldn’t leave it.” Hence the novel. Asked about his use of humor, he replied, “It’s my way of surviving. If I didn’t mix humor and sarcasm, I would never have reached this age.”