Instead of 'Chihuahua,' try a book

Despite the fact that the New York Times review called it only "reasonably diverting," it seems that "Beverly Hills Chihuahua" is No. 1 at the box office this holiday weekend.

If you're a dog lover and want an alternative, here are a few suggestions for your Columbus Day reading pleasure.  Ever since "Marley & Me" there have been dog books everywhere, but here are some recent ones that are good bets.

– "The Story of Edgar Sawtelle" by David Wroblewski. (Could Oprah be wrong?)

– "The Art of Racing in the Rain" by Garth Stein.   (A dog narrator is an unusual tactic but in this case it works.)

– "Stanley & Sophie" by Kate Jennings (A real-life account of the dogs that change us. If you're a dog person you'll relate entirely.)

– "The New Yorkers" by Cathleen Schine. (You could also wait for the movie – because if they're not making one they should be – but why deprive yourself of the pleasure of a good read in the meantime?)

Happy reading and enjoy your holiday!