The Dog Who Was There ~ Review

The Dog Who Was There
By Ron Marasco

This is an Easter book unlike any I have ever read. This is an emotionally moving book that follows the journey of a small dog by the name of Barley. Barley's life takes several dramatic turns throughout the story. There are flashes showing Barley's early life and how he came to be where he calls home when the book opens. The book is set in Israel on the outskirts of Jerusalem during the final days of Jesus life.

The book is told entirely through Barley's perspective. And due to an unforeseen happening Barley finds himself in Jerusalem at the same time as the Teacher that everyone is speaking of. Barley observes the brutality of a land under Roman rule as well as unexpected pockets of kindness. And he observes the transforming power of the Teacher, the triumphant entrance into Jerusalem, and the cruelty of the Crucifixion.

The loyalty, the love Barley displays is touching even to the point of moving the reader to a tear or two. These two emotions are the catalysts that propel the story to its conclusion - a conclusion that will leave the reader satisfied and rejoicing in the transforming power of Messiah's message. This cover perfectly depicts this book.

I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher through the Fiction Guild with no expectation of a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.



About the Book:
No one expected Barley to have an encounter with the Messiah. He was homeless, hungry, and struggling to survive in first century Jerusalem. Most surprisingly, he was a dog. But through Barley’s eyes, the story of a teacher from Galilee comes alive in a way we’ve never experienced before.

Barley’s story begins in the home of a compassionate woodcarver and his wife who find Barley as an abandoned, nearly-drowned pup. Tales of a special teacher from Galilee are reaching their tiny village, but when life suddenly changes again for Barley, he carries the lessons of forgiveness and love out of the woodcarver’s home and through the dangerous roads of Roman occupied Judea.

On the outskirts of Jerusalem, Barley meets a homeless man and petty criminal named Samid. Together, Barley and his unlikely new master experience fresh struggles and new revelations. Soon Barley is swept up into the current of history, culminating in an unforgettable encounter with the truest master of all as he bears witness to the greatest story ever told.