Book excerpt: On the cusp of turning 65, a man and his beloved rescue dog of similar vintage take a poignant, often bemusing, and keenly observed journey across America and discover a big-hearted, welcoming country filled with memorable characters, a new-found appreciation for the life they temporarily left behind, and a determination to live more fully in the moment as old age looms. Inspired by John Steinbeck’s Travels with Charley, Zheutlin, hits the road for a 9,000-mile odyssey with Albie to experience all that American is and means today. Similar in approach and tone to Bill Bryson’s best-selling travel classics, with with an endearing canine sidekick, The Dog Went Over the Mountain will delight dog lovers, baby boomers and anyone who seeks to experience life on the open road with a four-legged companion.