The Dog Who Was There

(Paperback)

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Description

Revisit the story of Jesus through the eyes of mans best frienda special dog named Barley.

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 Barleys eyes, the story of a teacher from Galilee comes alive in a way weve never experienced before.

Barleys story begins in the home of a compassionate woodcarving family who finds 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 woodcarvers 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.

An incredibly inspiring and beautiful tale of a blessed journey of lessons learned as told through the voice of one mans (and humanitys) best friend, a loving dog named Barley. Ron Marasco transports both heart and mind heralding understanding and acceptance while weaving rich religious history within the pages of this unique adventure.Kristen Chenoweth, Tony and Emmy awardwinning actress

If you need a spirit-lift, a book of hope, a read that will urge you to believe that hope is worth the risk, you are holding the right book. Do yourself a favorread and enjoy!Max Lucado, New York Times bestselling author of How Happiness Happens and Anxious for Nothing

Some of the greatest life lessons about courage, loyalty, trust, and patience . . . Ive learned from my dog. ReadThe Dog Who Was Thereand learn an amazing lesson about faith.Andy Andrews,New York Timesbestselling author ofThe NoticerandThe Travelers Gift

The Dog Who Was Thereis a page-turning read that stops and opens the heart. Revealing profound truth with compelling grace, Ron Marasco offers a singular vision of the greatest story ever told.Beth Henley, Pulitzer Prizewinning playwright ofCrimes of the HeartandThe Jacksonian

The Dog Who Was Thereis a wonderful, engaging book that adds a completely new perspective to the Passion story. Ron Marasco has created a character in Barley who will entertain and inspire readers. The retelling of Christs ministry through the human characters connects the reader in a unique was to the Gospel message, but it is Barley who will charm people of all ages.Kevin Baxter, EdD, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, Archdiocese of Los Angeles

• Inspirational standalone novel with biblical elements.
• Book length: 52,000 words.
• Includes discussion questions for book clubs.

Reviews

'Travel with a scrappy little dog named Barley. . . and see the world through his guileless eyes. Dog lovers will find Barleys story both heartwarming and nerve-wracking as his well-being depends on the whims of humans. But like his various human masters, Barley comes under the influence of the Kind Man, a teacher from Galilee who brings a message of love and forgiveness as the ultimate Master of all.' * WORLD Magazine *
Through the touching tale of a stray dog who witnesses the ministry of Jesus, Marascos (Notes to an Actor; About Grief ) first novel offers an unusual perspective on Christianitys beginnings. * Library Journal, starred review *
Barley, the main character of this novel, is a sweet and loyal companion who readers will love it is a good story with a twist at the end that readers may not see coming. It is worth the read for anyone looking for a new take on the common life during the time of Christ. * RT Book Reviews, 3 stars *
'. . . this novel delivers a completely original impression and narration of the most familiar and greatest of all stories. From the pups perspective one learns a new understanding of terms like friendship and joy, but also of terror, ugliness, and betrayal. Though the book is imbued with a subtle and appealing spirituality, it doesnt overwhelm. . . Children will love and be inspired by Barleys story, as will their parents and grandparents regardless of religion, or no religion. Readers will smile, occasionally laugh, and surely cry, but come away uplifted by this immensely moving little book. Highly recommended. * Historical Novel Reviews *

Author Bio

Ron Marasco is a professor in the College of Communication and Fine Arts at Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles. His first book, Notes to an Actor, was named by the American Library Association an Outstanding Book of 2008. His second book, About Grief, has been translated into multiple languages, and he is currently completing a book on Shakespeares sonnets. He has acted extensively on TVfrom Lost to West Wing to Entourage to originating the role of Mr. Casper on Freaks and Geeksand appeared opposite screen legend Kirk Douglas in the movie Illusion, for which he also wrote the screenplay. Most recently, he has played the recurring role of Judge Grove on Major Crimes. He has a BA from Fordham at Lincoln Center and an MA and Ph. D. from UCLA.