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Forever Max
***The No.1 Sunday Times Bestseller***The heartwarming, inspiring final chapter in the life of Max the Miracle dog
A dog can be more than just a best friend.
Sometimes they can be our hero.
Shortly after a traumatic car accident, Kerry Irving met Max, a Springer Spaniel who completely changed his life. But Max didn’t stop there. For over ten years, he was a source of inspiration to countless others around the world, with hundreds of thousands of pounds being raised in his name. His was truly a life well lived.
Forever Max sees Kerry and his trusted companion take on their final adventures around the Lake District, from providing joy to those stuck inside through lockdown to adjusting to Max’s twilight years – helped along every step of the way by fellow spaniels Paddy and Harry.
Following on from the bestseller Max the Miracle Dog, this touching tribute celebrates a much-loved, much-missed dog and his incredible legacy.
Kerry Irving's book 'Forever Max' was a No.1 Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2024-04-08.
A dog can be more than just a best friend.
Sometimes they can be our hero.
Shortly after a traumatic car accident, Kerry Irving met Max, a Springer Spaniel who completely changed his life. But Max didn’t stop there. For over ten years, he was a source of inspiration to countless others around the world, with hundreds of thousands of pounds being raised in his name. His was truly a life well lived.
Forever Max sees Kerry and his trusted companion take on their final adventures around the Lake District, from providing joy to those stuck inside through lockdown to adjusting to Max’s twilight years – helped along every step of the way by fellow spaniels Paddy and Harry.
Following on from the bestseller Max the Miracle Dog, this touching tribute celebrates a much-loved, much-missed dog and his incredible legacy.
Kerry Irving's book 'Forever Max' was a No.1 Sunday Times bestseller w/c 2024-04-08.
- GenresNonfictionAnimals
304 pages, Hardcover
Published June 11, 2024
38 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
July 1, 2025
Dogs are the best creatures in the world. Couldn’t stop going for a cuddle with Otis after each chapter
October 24, 2024
Shortly after a traumatic car accident, Kerry Irving met Max, a Springer Spaniel who completely changed his life. But Max didn’t stop there. For over ten years, he was a source of inspiration to countless others around the world, with hundreds of thousands of pounds being raised in his name. His was truly a life well lived.
Firstly I loved the story mentioned above of Max and Kerry's first novel and the incredible story touched my heart with the exceptional love story of Max and Kerry.
Through the years I have followed Kerry and Max's story and photographs through the Facebook page, and admire the lovely stories through the great photos.
Forever Max sees Kerry and his trusted companion take on their final adventures around the Lake District, from providing joy to those stuck inside through lock down to adjusting to Max’s twilight years – helped along every step of the way by fellow spaniels Paddy and Harry.
As an animal lover who walked a dog called Sam, a springer spaniel , tan coloured beautiful loyal friend , I also watched him get older in front of my eyes. In this book explains so well something all animal lovers worry about the right time, the sadness, well heartbreak of seeing Max get old in front of your eyes, Kerry explained how he felt perfectly.
This book is inspiring, heartwarming, heartbreaking, moving, I knew the conclusion of the story before I started, but still could not stop reading this book and yes with tears rolling down my cheeks.
Kerry, thank you for all you do, your charity work is incredible.
Five stars
Firstly I loved the story mentioned above of Max and Kerry's first novel and the incredible story touched my heart with the exceptional love story of Max and Kerry.
Through the years I have followed Kerry and Max's story and photographs through the Facebook page, and admire the lovely stories through the great photos.
Forever Max sees Kerry and his trusted companion take on their final adventures around the Lake District, from providing joy to those stuck inside through lock down to adjusting to Max’s twilight years – helped along every step of the way by fellow spaniels Paddy and Harry.
As an animal lover who walked a dog called Sam, a springer spaniel , tan coloured beautiful loyal friend , I also watched him get older in front of my eyes. In this book explains so well something all animal lovers worry about the right time, the sadness, well heartbreak of seeing Max get old in front of your eyes, Kerry explained how he felt perfectly.
This book is inspiring, heartwarming, heartbreaking, moving, I knew the conclusion of the story before I started, but still could not stop reading this book and yes with tears rolling down my cheeks.
Kerry, thank you for all you do, your charity work is incredible.
Five stars
October 18, 2025
Forever Max follows on the amazing story of Max the springer spaniel who changed his owners life. It’s a very heartwarming tale, though certainly sad at times it’s full of positivity and hope. An excellent read.
April 13, 2024
After following Max Out in the Lake on Facebook for several years, I found this book to be a wonderful memorial for that special dog. His owner, Kerry really knows how to tell a story. It is a good idea to have tissues handy.
April 13, 2024
Much awaited and much loved- a wonderful story of Maxs life and into the next generation of dogs. Uplifting and beautiful ❤️❤️
January 15, 2025
Having read and loved Max the first book, I had to read this one although I knew it might be hard going as I knew what was coming. The loss of a much loved dog is never easy and having lost our springer spaniel 4 years ago, it brought back so many memories.
Whilst the author goes over some of what he mentions in the first book, ultimately this one tells of Max’s last years. Seeing your dog coming to the end of life is heart breaking. Kerry tells of how Max starts to slow down and making the hard decision to keep him back from some of the lime light as he knew it would be too much for the dog. The amount of love for Kerry, Max, Paddy and Harry is outstanding. Even with Max now gone, his legacy is going from strength to strength.
There are so many heartwarming moments throughout. Another meeting with royalty and of course the famous monument which Max was still around for the unveiling. Even though these aren’t my dogs, you can’t help but feel so proud of them and all that they do and have achieved. The change in Kerry and his relentless charity work is just breathtaking and gives others so much hope. It is wonderful to see how much they have helped not just charities but individuals also. What was also nice to see was the amazing friendships that have come out of it.
Forever Max was such an inspirational read. I won’t lie, knowing what was coming I found this to be such an emotional read and I cried through most of it. Not that it is overly sad but seeing Max live out his last years was so endearing. Without a doubt he was one loved dog not just by his owners but thousands of people around the world. Paddy and Harry also stand out in their own right and are carrying on in their big brothers paw prints. An outstanding read!
Whilst the author goes over some of what he mentions in the first book, ultimately this one tells of Max’s last years. Seeing your dog coming to the end of life is heart breaking. Kerry tells of how Max starts to slow down and making the hard decision to keep him back from some of the lime light as he knew it would be too much for the dog. The amount of love for Kerry, Max, Paddy and Harry is outstanding. Even with Max now gone, his legacy is going from strength to strength.
There are so many heartwarming moments throughout. Another meeting with royalty and of course the famous monument which Max was still around for the unveiling. Even though these aren’t my dogs, you can’t help but feel so proud of them and all that they do and have achieved. The change in Kerry and his relentless charity work is just breathtaking and gives others so much hope. It is wonderful to see how much they have helped not just charities but individuals also. What was also nice to see was the amazing friendships that have come out of it.
Forever Max was such an inspirational read. I won’t lie, knowing what was coming I found this to be such an emotional read and I cried through most of it. Not that it is overly sad but seeing Max live out his last years was so endearing. Without a doubt he was one loved dog not just by his owners but thousands of people around the world. Paddy and Harry also stand out in their own right and are carrying on in their big brothers paw prints. An outstanding read!
January 13, 2025
This was such a heart warming read. I am ashamed to say I'd never even heard of Kerry and his dogs. I just chanced on this new book in the local library and picked it up.
I can't believe I've never heard of Max and Paddy and Harry. They don't live a million miles away from me, but strangely I'd never heard of the story of how Kerry found Max and how he came to help raise so much money for charities. Max is a famous dog and I didn't even know! However, the book brought me up to speed in their relationship, along with Kerry's other dogs Harry and Paddy.
It was lovely to read this story, how Max saved Kerry's life and gave him hope after a car accident left him with problems. Their relationship is definitely best friends and this was such a lovely read, clearly showing Kerry's devotion to his dogs. The efforts Kerry has been to along with hundreds of supporters the world over to raise money for charities is just inspiring and incredible.
A sad read in places but a lovely read. Really enjoyed this!
I can't believe I've never heard of Max and Paddy and Harry. They don't live a million miles away from me, but strangely I'd never heard of the story of how Kerry found Max and how he came to help raise so much money for charities. Max is a famous dog and I didn't even know! However, the book brought me up to speed in their relationship, along with Kerry's other dogs Harry and Paddy.
It was lovely to read this story, how Max saved Kerry's life and gave him hope after a car accident left him with problems. Their relationship is definitely best friends and this was such a lovely read, clearly showing Kerry's devotion to his dogs. The efforts Kerry has been to along with hundreds of supporters the world over to raise money for charities is just inspiring and incredible.
A sad read in places but a lovely read. Really enjoyed this!
May 5, 2024
(Hardback, not the Kindle edition)
We first came across Kerry and his Spaniels about 12 years ago while walking in Borrowdale by the river beneath Castle Crag. They were having so much fun in the water we didn't disturb them but being Spaniel lovers ourselves that memory stuck. Who'd have thought that they would feature as an on-line presence with such a remarkable story so many years later. Along with John Watterson, Gareth Malone and The Drunken Monk they became fixed points in our COVID lockdown journey and we've followed Kerry's and the boys' exploits ever since. This book tells a story of love, loss and hope that is both sad and joyful. It is (or perhaps I should say "Max" is) truly inspirational.
If you read it have a box or two of hankies ready.
We first came across Kerry and his Spaniels about 12 years ago while walking in Borrowdale by the river beneath Castle Crag. They were having so much fun in the water we didn't disturb them but being Spaniel lovers ourselves that memory stuck. Who'd have thought that they would feature as an on-line presence with such a remarkable story so many years later. Along with John Watterson, Gareth Malone and The Drunken Monk they became fixed points in our COVID lockdown journey and we've followed Kerry's and the boys' exploits ever since. This book tells a story of love, loss and hope that is both sad and joyful. It is (or perhaps I should say "Max" is) truly inspirational.
If you read it have a box or two of hankies ready.
July 20, 2024
The sequel to "Max the Miracle dog". Forever Max chronicles the final years of Max and how his owner Kerry deals with an ageing Springer and the effect it has him, his family and his worldview. It also goes beyond Max's life, showing his legacy.
Being an owner of cockers and springers this book instantly struck a chord. In fact, anyone who loves dogs will enjoy this book. It's funny, heartwarming and emotional and reveals life with three dogs before, during and after the pandemic.
Max was essentially an ambassador for fundraising. And icon people could relate to that raised so much money for charity it would make your head spin.
I've visited the bench in hope park many times and it's only now, after reading this, that I get it. Great stuff.
Being an owner of cockers and springers this book instantly struck a chord. In fact, anyone who loves dogs will enjoy this book. It's funny, heartwarming and emotional and reveals life with three dogs before, during and after the pandemic.
Max was essentially an ambassador for fundraising. And icon people could relate to that raised so much money for charity it would make your head spin.
I've visited the bench in hope park many times and it's only now, after reading this, that I get it. Great stuff.
November 17, 2024
What an utterly delightful book!
I've been following Max's story since before lockdown and found the 'Max Out In The Lake District' livestream walks on Facebook a comfort, not only because of the pandemic, but also after losing my dog and it was really lovely to see Max, Paddy and Harry having the time of their lives. The first book was a joy and this was no exception. It is a phenomenal thing that Kerry and his dogs have done to fundraise so much for the PDSA and GNAAS.
I hope there will be a follow-up up so that we can hear about the exploits of the newest editions, Tally and Duggy.
I've been following Max's story since before lockdown and found the 'Max Out In The Lake District' livestream walks on Facebook a comfort, not only because of the pandemic, but also after losing my dog and it was really lovely to see Max, Paddy and Harry having the time of their lives. The first book was a joy and this was no exception. It is a phenomenal thing that Kerry and his dogs have done to fundraise so much for the PDSA and GNAAS.
I hope there will be a follow-up up so that we can hear about the exploits of the newest editions, Tally and Duggy.
September 7, 2025
Forever Max by Kerry Irving
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Having read Max the Miracle Dog last month when I saw this (book 2) in the shop I just had to have it.
A heartwarming book about support, friendship, community, and love, both human and canine.
This is Max's story but also Paddy, Harry, Kerry, Angela and their friends' and community's story. The good he did, and the good that continues to be done in his memory.
You will need tissues, there a few sections I read through tears.
I loved that there were pictures at the end too.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Having read Max the Miracle Dog last month when I saw this (book 2) in the shop I just had to have it.
A heartwarming book about support, friendship, community, and love, both human and canine.
This is Max's story but also Paddy, Harry, Kerry, Angela and their friends' and community's story. The good he did, and the good that continues to be done in his memory.
You will need tissues, there a few sections I read through tears.
I loved that there were pictures at the end too.
March 22, 2025
😭
What an emotional rollercoaster. I didn't know this was the second book though. First one already downloaded though.
I just wanted to cry throughout this whole book. Kept wishing I knew max when he still graced this earth.
Having a spaniel of my own really brought this story to life for me and Im dreading the day I have to help him on his journey.
So brave of Kerry to do what he had to do.
What an emotional rollercoaster. I didn't know this was the second book though. First one already downloaded though.
I just wanted to cry throughout this whole book. Kept wishing I knew max when he still graced this earth.
Having a spaniel of my own really brought this story to life for me and Im dreading the day I have to help him on his journey.
So brave of Kerry to do what he had to do.
January 7, 2026
This book was picked up in the Works sale and only cost me a pound.
Shortly after a traumatic car accident, Kerry Irving met Max, a Springer Spaniel who completely changed his life. But Max didn’t stop there. For over ten years, he was a source of inspiration to countless others around the world, with hundreds of thousands of pounds being raised in his name. His was truly a life well lived.
It was a pleasure to enjoy the journey that Kerry and Max went through.
Shortly after a traumatic car accident, Kerry Irving met Max, a Springer Spaniel who completely changed his life. But Max didn’t stop there. For over ten years, he was a source of inspiration to countless others around the world, with hundreds of thousands of pounds being raised in his name. His was truly a life well lived.
It was a pleasure to enjoy the journey that Kerry and Max went through.
April 23, 2024
Thank You Kerry.
Another amazing and heartening real life story of an amazing dog called Max. I have followed the trio of dogs for a while now, they still make me smile cry and laugh. Thank You Kerry for bringing them into our lives. Thank You for opening up your life for us. I think your a very brave man.
Another amazing and heartening real life story of an amazing dog called Max. I have followed the trio of dogs for a while now, they still make me smile cry and laugh. Thank You Kerry for bringing them into our lives. Thank You for opening up your life for us. I think your a very brave man.
April 23, 2024
Max left a remarkable legacy, the wonder dog of Keswick with the wagging tail and soft brown eyes. Kerrie and his springers reached out and we all followed, captivated by the love for the lakes and of course his dogs. I read this with tears in my eyes but much love in my heart. Max forever xx
May 27, 2024
Max.... Part 2. The amazing dog who brought so much love into the world. This little dog brought so many people together in a time when the world shut down. This book continues the story. From start to finish, you need to read this book with a box of tissues beside you.
July 19, 2024
I absolutely adored the first book "Max the Miracle Dog" so knew I had to read this and follow the amazing story. My heart breaks for Kerry but what a life, what a dog. Dogs truly are incredible. This is a must read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2024
Max
I really hope enjoyed this book it was happy and sad and very moving in places . I like the way Kerry writes his story it is easy to read and just as he speaks , I enjoyed his other books also well worth the read . Thank you Kerry .
I really hope enjoyed this book it was happy and sad and very moving in places . I like the way Kerry writes his story it is easy to read and just as he speaks , I enjoyed his other books also well worth the read . Thank you Kerry .
November 21, 2024
Tear jerker
A continuation from his other book about Max., about his life and times.and His loyalty . I enjoyed the first book and also this one although I think I went through at least half a box of tissues towards the end!!
A continuation from his other book about Max., about his life and times.and His loyalty . I enjoyed the first book and also this one although I think I went through at least half a box of tissues towards the end!!
September 21, 2025
Unfortunately I had to give up on this book which is a shame because I was enjoying it all up until they discussed breeding their dog with no real experience or preparation on their part. Sorry I just couldn't go any further.
April 22, 2024
Max lives on in Kerry and his boys
A beautiful tale of the life of Max on how he helped and inspired Kerry and so many while walking in the beautiful area around Keswick.
A beautiful tale of the life of Max on how he helped and inspired Kerry and so many while walking in the beautiful area around Keswick.
May 22, 2024
Such a lovely book. Great to be back in Max & Kerry’s world.
Keep the tissues near when you read it though! 🐾
Keep the tissues near when you read it though! 🐾
May 30, 2024
Lovely read. The love between an owner and a dog is priceless
May 30, 2024
This book deserves nothing less than 5 stars. I have loved following Max’s story, what a remarkable dog he was. Kerry and his dogs do such amazing work for the community, a real inspiration.
July 27, 2024
Amazing I cried
January 17, 2025
It was ok. I think I would have enjoyed it more I’d read the first book.
February 26, 2025
Absolutely beautiful work loved the whole book a great read
July 3, 2025
Must read, amazing book. highly recommend
August 24, 2025
Such an emotional autobiography of a man and his dogs. Max the miracle dog brought hope and love to so many people as did the other dogs. As a local Cumbria I can’t wait to visit the statue!
September 27, 2025
A very emotional book. it was lovely to read the next chapter in the life of Max.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews