Oliver: The True Story of a Stolen Dog and the Humans He Brought Together by Steven J. Carino and Alex Tresniowski offers a story of love and community suitable for all animal lovers, but especially those who love dogs. Much time is devoted to Oliver and Steven’s close canine-human relationship. At first, the moments of extreme emotion felt excessive. However, as Steven continued explaining his past experiences and his devotion to Oliver, I came to recognize Oliver’s loss as equivalent to the loss of a child. This understanding boosted my interest in the story and helped me relate to Steven. Though Oliver was not written exclusively by Steven J. Carino, his voice permeates the narrative as he recounts the raw emotions and spiritual struggles of that time with deep honesty and authenticity.

Oliver stands as more than the memoir of a man whose dog was taken because it tells the story of how the people around Steven drew together in unity. Race, age, gender, and social status lacked any importance. The community – family members, friends, strangers, social media followers, and others – saw a need and responded with compassion and love. Furthermore, as Steven recognizes these gifts, he learns to reach out with love and forgiveness to those who hurt him the most. Oliver lands as inspiring tale about the power of love to transform a life.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this product via the Amazon Vine program. All opinions in this review are my own. ( )

This is a story that really pulls at your heart strings. A man whose life has been affected by so much loss, and the love of a little dog, and the touching of so many lives.
Would I be able to forgive, I hope so, someone who hurt me so terribly by stealing my dog? Can or could I live my faith and offer forgiveness, that is what we hope Steven is able to do, and to come of terms with the loss of Oliver.
What I didn't expect was the out pouring of love and help that comes from such a loss. Family and friends, and strangers all take the loss of Oliver personally, and want to do all they can to return him to Steven.
This is a quote from Steven and it sure does apply to this story "As Steven says,'This is more than just a dog story. This is an everybody story. This is a love story.'"
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson and Zondervan, and was not required to give a positive review. ( )