"Bruce" charts the story of an unwanted puppy who becomes loved by the mistress of the family. He is then enlisted as a carrier dog in World War I, completing heroic tasks and coming home a war hero. Albert Payson Terhune (1872 – 1942) was an American writer, journalist and dog breeder. He studied at Columbia University where he graduated with a Bachelor in Arts. As well as dog breeding, he also took part in boxing matches, and was a member of the Adventure’s Club of New York. He wrote a series of dog-focuses stories and novels, including the 1919 "Lad: A Dog". His novels were popular with both adults and children, and have inspired countless writers and screenwriters after him. His New Jersey estate, Sunnybank, still stands to this day and is maintained is in his memory.