Imagine what it's like when the pet you know as sweet is reviled and greatly feared by some. Picture taking your dog for a walk and people practically running in the other direction. Imagine finding out that because this dog is a member of your household you aren't welcome in a number of communities across the country. All this and more become the experiences of the author after she adopts a very ill, pit bull. A 30-something college instructor and freelance journalist with a penchant for rescuing animals, the author initially fears the pit bull might be dangerous. But this dogs turns out to be a funny, smart and, yes, sweet animal, leading the author to question the validity of the negative pit bull stereotypes. An eye-opening journey follows. Using humor along with investigative research-including interviews with experts and pit bull lovers-the author discusses pit bulls in general, her experiences with Barney the pit bull mix, and life with multiple dogs.