Since this is one of Koontz's early and very popular novels, the basic plot is probably well known to most readers so I will only provide a relatively brief summary. (In addition, there are already hundreds of other reviews available for readers who prefer a more detailed discussion of the book.) This review will hopefully be of more interest and more value to potential readers of WATCHERS by providing a discussion of my reactions to the story and by describing my reasons for recommending that anyone with the time available should strongly consider listening to the unabridged audio CD version rather than reading the book. (Warning: it consists of 13 CD's and is approximately 15 hours in length.)
Travis Cornell is a man in the throes of despair; he has been unsuccessful in his search to instill some purpose in his life following the horrible tragedy which has befallen him. The reader meet Travis walking through the woods and contemplating his past and future; suddenly a golden retriever appears and the agitated dog surprisingly insists on Travis immediately leaving the area. Travis' feeling of unease is gradually replaced by an increasingly preternatural dread; they safely return to Travis' car and Travis speeds away taking the dog with him. The dog's anxiety gradually lessens but never disappears; several incidents cause Travis to realize that the dog seems very intelligent, and the dog (presciently named Einstein) causes Travis to focus on something other than himself. A chance encounter soon changes their lives; they meet Nora Devon, a withdrawn and very self-critical woman who is soon saved by Einstein's seeming sixth sense. As you undoubtedly will surmise, this story is much more complex and sinister than simply a boy meets dog meets girl romance novel.
As Travis and Nora soon learn, there is another main character in this drama, "The Outsider", a sinister yet pathetic bioengineered beast (as intelligent as Einstein) who has escaped from the same top secret lab as Einstein and who seems intent on horribly mutilating whatever victims happen to cross his path as he single mindedly stalks Einstein across the countryside. The supporting cast is also well drawn and integral to the plot - among them, Vince, the really weird mob hit man who is pursing eternal life; Lemuel Johnson, the NSA operative who is tasked with retrieving the escapees and keeping the truth hidden from the public; and Walt Gaines, the local sheriff and Lem's long time friend who is increasingly frustrated by Lem's secrecy regarding the truth behind the horrific murders occurring in his jurisdiction. The story is long with several unpredictable twists but the plot is quite simple; it is Koontz' skill as a storyteller and the philosophical questions which it addresses which make it a compelling tale.
I was caught up as soon as I listened to the first chapter; my reactions ranged from tension to excitement to tears to pure joy. The interaction and development of the three main characters - Travis, Einstein, and Nora - is wonderfully handled even if predictable in many respects. This is truly a story where the details matter, a totally faithful summary of the complete storyline would probably only take a few pages but in no way do it justice, as is true of many of Koontz' works. As the story unfolded, I felt that I was participating in the action and cheering for my new friends to all safely reach the end of the novel alive and together as an intact family despite the great odds which they would have to overcome. The transformation of each of them and the bond which gradually joined them together as their adventure proceeded provided many pleasant hours of listening.
I have read many of Koontz' recent novels and enjoyed them tremendously, and thus decided to read some of his earlier works. This book was on a par in terms of my enjoyment with my previous favorite - LIFE EXPECTANCY - despite the very different construction and tone. I had not previously listened to audio books, but was planning to be doing a lot traveling by myself and searched for something in which I could become completely absorbed in order to pass the time quickly. This so completely captivated me that on a few occasions I hated the trip segment to end and could scarcely wait to move the CD from my car to my portable player so that I could resume listening to the story.
I thought the rendition was excellent; the narrator J. Charles faithfully captured the changes in mood as the story progressed as well as successfully differentiating among the characters through very distinct and individual intonations. Especially compelling was Einstein's progressively intelligent and loveable "WOOF". In effect, listening to this book rather than looking at the printed page allowed me to visualize the story as it proceeded, the word pictures were often so vivid and dramatic that I frequently felt as if I were at the movies. So, if you are either an habitual user of audio books or simply an avid reader with an inclination to listen to a story instead of reading a book, I recommend this production. (As an aside, the technique adopted by Brilliance Audio of having seamless tracks averaging less a minute each was incredibly useful both when I had to interrupt my listening or change CD players for some reason or if my attention was momentarily diverted and I wanted to replay a short segment without having to listen to a several minute interval.)
This is a story of many moods - from the terror of gruesome killings to the great joy of self-discovery, friendship and love. Among the many wonderful elements, the two which will always stick in my mind are the concluding few chapters together with the scenes where Nora and Travis gradually improve their methodology for communicating with Einstein. Maybe it is because I feel a strong bond to our family's golden retriever, but the those seemed pitch perfect to me and the use of the "communication machine" which they eventually designed was wonderful to contemplate. But I refuse to divulge any further details, so you'll have to read the book both to discover their secret and to learn the derivation of the title.
Tucker Andersen
Watchers
4.7 4.7 out of 5 stars | 20,675 ratings
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Last update: 06-08-2024
Top reviews from the United States
Tucker Andersen5.0 out of 5 stars
(5+) A Tense Yet Moving Story and Excellent Audio CD
Reviewed in the United States on November 25, 2005Nicole5.0 out of 5 stars
Absolutely love the Goldies!!!
Reviewed in the United States on July 24, 2023
When I first saw the book cover, I actually “fell” for the book because of the dog on the cover. I love dogs and the cover really spoke to my heart. How could I pass up a book about a dog! My hesitation – that it was written by Dean Koontz. I thought I was well aware of Koontz's reputation, but I will reserve the answer until the end of my review.
I am now in my eighties and have always read books en masse! I have orders to bury all my books with me when I die – just joshing of course! Reading has been a great love in my life. I always have my “next book” ready before I finish the current book. This book I truly hesitated because of the author. Do I have anything against Dean Koontz: don't know him but do know the type of books that he writes – or at least, as I said, I thought I did. As I grew older, I became much more selective in my reading. Things that never bothered me before in life, now do bother me. I simply don't read books that contain terror in any form. By terror, I am not talking about furballs but I am talking about the two-legged kind of animals. I don't want this type of garbage to enter my mind. Unfortunately there is enough in the daily news and that makes it almost unavoidable.
Reason: I watched Psycho back in the 70's and never (and I repeat – never!) was able to get over the scene in the bathtub and the music that went with it. That's the reason I refuse now to store more of these images and thoughts in my head. Just saying...
Getting back to the book and Dean Koontz... I did something I've never done before and have to mention “giveaways” from reviews at Amazon. When I realized that “Einstein,” the dog, was a good dog, I decided that I did want to read this book. But I was still very nervous about the author. So, I went to the reviews on the book. Normally, I read reviews only after I've read a book for the simple reason that not everyone likes and appreciates the same types of book. OK. If I want to read this book, surely I can get a better idea of whether I should or should not read it – we come in all different flavors! So, off I went. Read a few reviews. Some reviews told the entire story – I could not believe people do that – what point is there to buy and read the book then? You actually know the entire story along with the ending. Why would you do that? Well, as it turned out in MY case, that gave me the gumption to read the book and not be terrified out of my wits. So, it worked – BUT – how many people did it turn off? What a shock..... just saying....
As I started reading, I quickly decided that there were parts of the book that I wouldn't read and hopefully it wouldn't spoil it for me. Maybe I could just “Vince-out” for myself. Vince was the type of character that I don't want to read about and that is my reason for not reading some types of books. I don't need that to “psycho” in my brain, so to speak. Now I will go on – with the rest!!
The story of this dog was one of the most beautiful stories that I have ever read about a dog. I loved it - every minute of the book. I didn't even want to read it quickly – only because of the beauty of the relationship with the dog and the characters. Oh how I loved it. What a dream to read. I so want a dog like Einstein! Humor – the dog humor was exquisite for me because that is one of the main reasons I love these animals so much. In their own ways, they laugh too. One day without an animal and I miss the laughter so much. I have so many “tails” to tell, I could almost write a book myself...
We've had dogs all our lives and there was a piece of Einstein in all of them – even my beautiful cat that we had to put down because he contracted leukemia (at only 4 years old). Another piece of my heart went with him! But that incredible dog reminded me so much of a piece of each of our animals. Having known so many, I firmly believe that God has placed these wonderful animals on this earth, not only for our pleasure, but to show us how to love each other. When an animal loves you, they give their love so freely and so thoroughly. Dogs especially. Their love knows no bounds. I know there are cruel people in this world, but God will take care of them when the time comes. No one will ever get away with mistreating God's creatures. Their time will come!
The second most beautiful thing in this book is Dean Koontz's “afterword” at the end of the story. His afterword so kindled my hear that I re-read and re-read and will again and again! It was like reading something I had written. I, too, am almost to the adult diaper stage Dean and, as I read that you hope you can expect to receive mail from readers that says, in essence, “I love your book.” Watchers, is the very best I've ever read about a dog, and I've read many! I honestly do not think that even a sequel (which I will buy sight unseen if you ever do) would be any better. The love that you show for these precious animals will be shared among all who read this book.
You definitely should be personally satisfied with this treasure and the joy that I received reading must come very close to the joy you received in writing it. It showed throughout the whole book. You truly had a incredible and beautiful unique idea in this creation. How many times have I mentioned how wonderful it would be if God would allow us even one day a year to share the spoken word with our fur faces (love it) just so we could make sure they understand why we do some of the things we do that they don't like – just to keep them safe because we love them so!
As I stated before, if I could have “Vinced-out” a certain part for me, it would have been as perfect a book as I could have ever hoped to read. You filled me with confirmation of the feelings that I have when I read about animals, again especially dogs, and especially goldens, and it was a pure and exquisite pleasure for me to go through the book. It makes me wish I could encourage you to seriously think more of writing this type of book. The bad guys could stay fictitious but the depth and warmth of the hero of the story could always be, not expanded, for you did a wonderful job of that, but as possibly a sequel of a hero and his progeny.
Talk about being at the peak of your abilities!!! Brussel sprouts – I will continue to try them because I, too, am an optimist – surely, one of these days, they will taste like peanut butter – ah!
Yes, the healing power of love and friendship and the relationship of mankind to God all come from Him. He IS “Love.” To love God and to love one another is right at the top of the commandments He gave us. Someday, when He comes again, we will all learn to live in love with all God's creatures. We DO have that ability to change for the better – yes we do!
As you say, we DO have the ability to love, the need to be loved, and the willingness to put our own lives on the line to protect those we love and it is in these aspects of ourselves that we can glimpse the face of God. I love these thoughts – so so precious!
This truly was one heck-of-a-terrific book – truly - truly loved it!!! God bless you for writing it!
I am now in my eighties and have always read books en masse! I have orders to bury all my books with me when I die – just joshing of course! Reading has been a great love in my life. I always have my “next book” ready before I finish the current book. This book I truly hesitated because of the author. Do I have anything against Dean Koontz: don't know him but do know the type of books that he writes – or at least, as I said, I thought I did. As I grew older, I became much more selective in my reading. Things that never bothered me before in life, now do bother me. I simply don't read books that contain terror in any form. By terror, I am not talking about furballs but I am talking about the two-legged kind of animals. I don't want this type of garbage to enter my mind. Unfortunately there is enough in the daily news and that makes it almost unavoidable.
Reason: I watched Psycho back in the 70's and never (and I repeat – never!) was able to get over the scene in the bathtub and the music that went with it. That's the reason I refuse now to store more of these images and thoughts in my head. Just saying...
Getting back to the book and Dean Koontz... I did something I've never done before and have to mention “giveaways” from reviews at Amazon. When I realized that “Einstein,” the dog, was a good dog, I decided that I did want to read this book. But I was still very nervous about the author. So, I went to the reviews on the book. Normally, I read reviews only after I've read a book for the simple reason that not everyone likes and appreciates the same types of book. OK. If I want to read this book, surely I can get a better idea of whether I should or should not read it – we come in all different flavors! So, off I went. Read a few reviews. Some reviews told the entire story – I could not believe people do that – what point is there to buy and read the book then? You actually know the entire story along with the ending. Why would you do that? Well, as it turned out in MY case, that gave me the gumption to read the book and not be terrified out of my wits. So, it worked – BUT – how many people did it turn off? What a shock..... just saying....
As I started reading, I quickly decided that there were parts of the book that I wouldn't read and hopefully it wouldn't spoil it for me. Maybe I could just “Vince-out” for myself. Vince was the type of character that I don't want to read about and that is my reason for not reading some types of books. I don't need that to “psycho” in my brain, so to speak. Now I will go on – with the rest!!
The story of this dog was one of the most beautiful stories that I have ever read about a dog. I loved it - every minute of the book. I didn't even want to read it quickly – only because of the beauty of the relationship with the dog and the characters. Oh how I loved it. What a dream to read. I so want a dog like Einstein! Humor – the dog humor was exquisite for me because that is one of the main reasons I love these animals so much. In their own ways, they laugh too. One day without an animal and I miss the laughter so much. I have so many “tails” to tell, I could almost write a book myself...
We've had dogs all our lives and there was a piece of Einstein in all of them – even my beautiful cat that we had to put down because he contracted leukemia (at only 4 years old). Another piece of my heart went with him! But that incredible dog reminded me so much of a piece of each of our animals. Having known so many, I firmly believe that God has placed these wonderful animals on this earth, not only for our pleasure, but to show us how to love each other. When an animal loves you, they give their love so freely and so thoroughly. Dogs especially. Their love knows no bounds. I know there are cruel people in this world, but God will take care of them when the time comes. No one will ever get away with mistreating God's creatures. Their time will come!
The second most beautiful thing in this book is Dean Koontz's “afterword” at the end of the story. His afterword so kindled my hear that I re-read and re-read and will again and again! It was like reading something I had written. I, too, am almost to the adult diaper stage Dean and, as I read that you hope you can expect to receive mail from readers that says, in essence, “I love your book.” Watchers, is the very best I've ever read about a dog, and I've read many! I honestly do not think that even a sequel (which I will buy sight unseen if you ever do) would be any better. The love that you show for these precious animals will be shared among all who read this book.
You definitely should be personally satisfied with this treasure and the joy that I received reading must come very close to the joy you received in writing it. It showed throughout the whole book. You truly had a incredible and beautiful unique idea in this creation. How many times have I mentioned how wonderful it would be if God would allow us even one day a year to share the spoken word with our fur faces (love it) just so we could make sure they understand why we do some of the things we do that they don't like – just to keep them safe because we love them so!
As I stated before, if I could have “Vinced-out” a certain part for me, it would have been as perfect a book as I could have ever hoped to read. You filled me with confirmation of the feelings that I have when I read about animals, again especially dogs, and especially goldens, and it was a pure and exquisite pleasure for me to go through the book. It makes me wish I could encourage you to seriously think more of writing this type of book. The bad guys could stay fictitious but the depth and warmth of the hero of the story could always be, not expanded, for you did a wonderful job of that, but as possibly a sequel of a hero and his progeny.
Talk about being at the peak of your abilities!!! Brussel sprouts – I will continue to try them because I, too, am an optimist – surely, one of these days, they will taste like peanut butter – ah!
Yes, the healing power of love and friendship and the relationship of mankind to God all come from Him. He IS “Love.” To love God and to love one another is right at the top of the commandments He gave us. Someday, when He comes again, we will all learn to live in love with all God's creatures. We DO have that ability to change for the better – yes we do!
As you say, we DO have the ability to love, the need to be loved, and the willingness to put our own lives on the line to protect those we love and it is in these aspects of ourselves that we can glimpse the face of God. I love these thoughts – so so precious!
This truly was one heck-of-a-terrific book – truly - truly loved it!!! God bless you for writing it!