It's a Wonderful Dog

by Keri Salas

“I have no doubt that it will stand the test of time and become a classic in its own right.” -Behind the Bookshelf

It’s Christmas Eve in western Kansas and a snowstorm is gaining strength as Bear Bailey, a devoted Great Pyrenees, tries to comfort his beloved owner Mary. She’s in hot water with the local business villain, and Bear’s earlier altercation with this miser only seemed to make things worse. When Mary blurts out that she wishes for a different life, Bear blames himself for her despair and runs away.

Meanwhile, Jiff, a Labrador patiently waiting for his own human to meet him at the Rainbow Bridge, sees Bear shivering alone in the blizzard. Knowing Bear won’t survive the night without intervention, Jiff agrees to act as Bear’s guardian angel on Earth. He is determined to show the Great Pyrenees what the lives of the humans around him would have been like without his presence over the years.

A holiday “tail” for those who love the season but feel the deep loss of loved ones (both furry and human), It’s a Wonderful Dog shines a light on the power of love and community, and it reminds us that miracles do exist.

Genres: Christmas, Fiction, Holiday

227 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 30, 2023

Reviews

[Debra Slonek · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes, the perfect Holiday book arrives just before Christmas. I’m so glad it did!

I am naturally drawn to books with animals as characters. I loved Bear and his friend Jiff, two very good boys. This book kept me thoroughly engaged as it warmed my heart. This book was cleverly written in the tradition of It’s A Wonderful Life.

Bear, a sensitive Great Pyrenees, loved most everyone and most everyone loved him. He found himself in a sad situation where he needed to be reminded of his worth. Jiff was chosen as the perfect companion to help Bear remember. What a team they made!

I also really enjoyed the human characters, their relationships and their true friendships. They sincerely cared for one another and met each other’s needs.

I read the end of this book with tears streaming down my face and the strongest urge to hug my loved ones, humans and critters alike.

I received a complimentary copy of this special book from Acorn Publishing through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Deb McIlroy · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a different novel than I read normally but without any regrets.

Did you love the movie ‘It's a Wonderful Life’? Do you love Christmas stories and dogs? Then you will love this book!!
I almost gave up on a 5-star read this month, but thank God it is here. This book was by far one of the most heartfelt and heartwarming books I have read in a while. I just loved all the characters., humans, dogs and angels. Mary was very loveable and I could very much relate to her, losing my mother just a couple of years ago. But Earth Dog Bear and Angel Dog Jiff warmed my heart. The story dragged me in and my eyes were glued to the pages. Yes, there were some tears as well, remembering my dogs that went over the rainbow bridge. The funny thing was that my heart felt some kind of ‘hopeful’ feeling and how amazing it would be to see my dogs again. Anyways…back to this book. The scenes were nicely written and again brought back memories of myself. I think that is the power of this book and why it is so amazing. When readers discuss this book, I believe a lot of their own memories will come up and not one will be the same (for the ones who had or have a dog). The bond between dogs and humans is beautifully written by the author. I laughed, I cried, I worried and couldn't stop turning the pages. What a wonderful book and I highly recommend it, especially for the ones with a dog, who has lost a dog or just someone who loves dogs.


I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, NetGalley, and Xpresso Book Tours for this ARC.

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Brilliant. Keri Salas has written a beautiful and heart warming book. The main character, a Great Pyrenees named Bear, feels that he has ruined his owner’s life. He feels that Mary would have been better off without him. Much like in the movie it’s a Wonderful Life, an angel, in this case a dog angel named Jiff, is tasked with returning to earth and showing Bear exactly how different and sad his owners and others lives would have been without him.

For anyone that has been blessed enough to experience the unconditional love and companionship of a dog, this book is priceless. The story will warm your heart and stay with you forever. It will also give you comfort. I cannot imagine my life without my dogs. They have my heart.

[Joe Leone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Everyone drop what you are doing and go read this book. #JL

[Heather Marcel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cute hallmark movie type book. Listened to audio, and the narrator brought the characters to life. Fun, easy and fast read for a pick me up!

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a Wonderful Dog is a holiday remake of It’s a Wonderful life, with the Bailey name including Mary but with a totally different main character. I loved how Bear Bailey is a dog who has made not just a difference in Mary’s and Theo’s life but also the town’s too. Keri Salas has a great imaginative way in depicting this story from a dog’s perspective.

Jiff is a dog who has already crossed the Rainbow bridge now he has been waiting a long time for his owner to join him in the great beyond. There is humor in Jiff as he comes to help Bear find his way, but it is not as you would expect. Still I appreciate it. In fact I appreciated everything about this book. While the book got off to a slow start, it picked up the pace so it is still 5 stars for me.

For a new holiday treat be sure to read It's a Wonderful Dog.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Jamie Bleything · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED!!! Whether you are a dog person or not, this is the kind of heartwarming story everyone needs in their lives!

[Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like dogs than read this book. I have struggled with my dogs crossing the rainbow bridge and this story has helped me immensely. I have also felt guilty about getting another dog even though a new dog will never replace a old dog. I believe that there is a right dog out there for everyone and everything happens for a reason.

[Conne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Myriads of dogs’ noses tilted upward; their eyes closed as they began to sniff in hope of recognizing their human’s scent floating on the air.

This sentence just caught my heart. I could just envision all my girls waiting for me in heaven.

Such a great story by a debut author. I enjoyed every page.

[Susan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book about a dog named Bear who is on Earth and a dog named Jiff that is sent down from his post waiting for his human on the rainbow bridge to help Bear.

For anyone who has a special dog who has passed away or is about to pass, this is the book that you want to read to renew your faith about your beloved pet being happy and waiting for you on the rainbow bridge and what it will be like to reunite with them. It will bring you hope and it will bring you comfort.

Mary is lost after her mother's death. When she finds herself in the position of being able to save a dog from the shelter at Christmas, she can't resist the way that the dog makes her feel calmer and less full of grief than before.

Mary is such a lovable woman with all of her spunk after she has Bear by her side. One of my favorite scenes is when she is arguing with a very nasty man trying to mess with her property and that of a family that she has become very close to. Bear makes his opinion known by urinating on the nasty man's pants. It shows you that Bear and Mary both share the spunky streak and Bear is so devoted to her.

I love how Bear brings everyone together. You can't help but love his joy and his desire to make people happy and bring out the best of them. I especially love how he is such an inspiration to Mary and her building a co-op with his name. It is beautiful to have such a good thing for the community in honor of a wonderful dog.

Jiff stole my heart when he comes back to earth. There is a scene between him and his former owner that will bring you such joy and tug at your heartstrings. Loved this book and these two pups so much!

I highly recommend this to all who have loved a dog, have a dog near passing or have lost their souldog. It helped heal my heart and I hope it does the same for you.

[Leighton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is magical! As a 27 year old woman, I loved it dearly. As a third grade teacher, I witnessed 21 eight year olds listen in pure awe as I read it aloud to them. This book spreads messages about love, kindness, community, loss, and peace. My students thought deeply about this book, and I know it will stick with them forever. This is the only book I have ever read aloud where a group of eight year olds ended it with a round of applause. Mrs. Salas not only writes very well, but also spreads kindness through everything she does. That does not go unnoticed in the book or in real life. There is such a genuine feeling of love and hope associated with this book, and I hope everyone gets to experience the magic of it. Adults and kids will all find pleasure in this story!

[Kim Myers · Rating 5 out of 5]

A must read for all dog lovers.
I loved this book and can’t wait to read the other books in the series.

This heartwarming Christmas story follows a sweet dog who enters someone’s life at just the right moment—bringing comfort, joy, and a renewed sense of purpose.

Set against the magical backdrop of the holiday season, the dog not only helps heal a hurting heart but also inspires a new connection with the community. Together, they embark on an uplifting business journey filled with hope, friendship, and second chances.

This story beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas—where love, miracles, and meaningful connections come when you least expect them. A must-read for anyone who believes in the magic of the season.

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love dogs, you will love this story.

Bear, He's such a wonderful dog he is a great Pyrenees He sure loves everyone.
A story to capture your heart for sure.
This is a book that I loved and also well a story about kansas. And I live in Kansas. What's not to love.

Just a terrific read. Again, as I said, if you love dogs, this is a must read...

I listened to this one on audio.
The narrator was absolutely fabulous.
I normally only listen to one Narrator because well I have a favorite. But listening to this lady.
She did an amazing job on this story.

[Denice Langley · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a Wonderful Life centered around the life of an overly friendly Great Pyrnees that thinks his humans would be better off without him. The story line may be the same but it's definitely a wonderful....pun intended....telling of the story. This would be an excellent book to read together this holiday season and remind the humans that everyone is important.

[Darwin Prioleau · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautY

I loved this story. My favorite Christmas movie is a Wonderful Life. It's a Wonderful Dog is one of my favorite stories. I laughed and I cried.

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a twist on one of my favourite holiday movies, one that was filmed before I was born, but I have watched it most, if not all, the years as Christmas approaches.

This story begins with a husband and wife, who have just returned to the home town of her mother, who has recently passed. She is trying to come to terms with her mother’s death, and also get her mother’s house in order with plans to sell it, but she seems to be lost in the memories, and not quite able to come to terms with it, and Christmas isn’t that far off. Being back in the town where she grew up brings back so many memories, some good, some painful. Her husband, trying to divert her attention to something he thinks will make her smile, a puppy that one of the neighbors just bought in an attempt to win over his girlfriend - which apparently didn’t work.

When her husband says ’You know, as a child, I was told all the best souls arrive at Christmas’, at first she accuses him of making it up, but then she says she likes the sound of that. And so a puppy becomes the new member of the family.

I have never had a Great Pyrenees or a Black Lab, but I’ve had dogs since I was born through most of the years of my life, and I had no idea that this was a twist on one of my favourite movies, but I’m so glad that I went into this without knowing too much.


Pub Date: 16 Nov 2023

Many thanks for the ARC provided by Acorn Publishing

[Deanne Patterson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A big, beautiful boy, Bear Bailey, known as Bear by his family is a Great Pyrenees. His owner Mary is going through a dark period in her life, she hasn't been happy in months. One evening the stress gets to Mary and she has a breakdown. It doesn't help that Bear though potty trained long ago accidently goes on the floor because he picks up on his owner's stress. Mary says hurtful things to Bear, and he goes out into a blinding snowstorm just to make Mary happy because that's all he wants, her happiness. With the wind forcefully blowing he doesn't hear Mary calling him back, there are coyotes surrounding him, he's weak and hurt.
Jiff is a Labrador patiently waiting for his own human to meet him at the Rainbow Bridge. He's been waiting decades for his owner, and he gets permission to return to earth to act as Bear's guardian that evening during the blizzard. Jiff knows Bear will not survive this Christmas Eve night without divine intervention. He is there to show him just how the humans he has known over the years would have been lacking in life's happiness without him in it.
The seasonal light shines through with family both human and animals and this one will make you pause to reflect on all your pets of the past who've traveled over that rainbow bridge.

Pub Date 16 Nov 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

[Carol Cassada · Rating 4 out of 5]

Anything with Christmas and dogs has the makings of a good, heartwarming story.

Bear is a giant lovable dog, who brings joy to his owner Mary Bailey’s life. As Mary and her husband start a new life in Kansas, the couple and their dog become well-known members of the community. Yet, Mary’s attempts to help her community is thwarted by the greedy and heartless Mr. Chapowits, who has an unpleasant encounter with Bear.

When Mary’s troubles begin piling up, Bear believes it’s his fault and runs away. But a guardian angel in the form of a Labrador named Jiff, offers Bear a glimpse of life without him.

This was a beautiful, heartwarming twist on the classic film It’s a Wonderful Life. Your heart tugs reading about the bond between Bear and Mary. The townspeople also added to the story with the way they stood up for the Baileys.

One thing that would’ve been nice to see is Mr. Chapowits get his comeuppance. Also, there was the lingering question of what happened to Lupe’s husband. It kind of left you hanging, wondering if he was ever going to return.

This book is a lovely reminder that dogs impact our lives more than we can imagine.

[LizBeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keri Salas has crafted a beautiful and heartwarming story told from a dog’s point of view. With vivid descriptions and a gift for bringing characters to life, she draws readers into the heart of the narrative and makes them feel truly present in the world she’s created.

At the center of the story is Jiff, a loyal Labrador waiting patiently at the Rainbow Bridge for his beloved human. Meanwhile, on Earth, Bear, a Great Pyrenees from Kansas, is struggling through a dark and difficult time, just as Christmas approaches.

Bear’s human, Mary, is a spirited and lovable woman with a heart full of kindness. She's always had Bear by her side, but trouble is brewing. She’s found herself at odds with a local business villain, and a recent incident involving Bear has only made things worse. Believing Mary might be better off without him, Bear runs away.

That’s when Jiff steps in. With gentle guidance, Jiff helps Bear realize just how much he means to Mary—and how many lives he’s touched simply by being her faithful companion.

[Bertha Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a wonderful Christmas story about a wonderful dog. But really, aren't all dogs wonderful?
Bear Bailey is a beautiful Great Pyrenees who came into Mary Bailey's life when she needed him most: the pain of her mother's death has her plunged into a deep depression from which her husband Theodore is unable to help her out. .
With Bear's help, Mary regains her joy and love for life and integrates into the community and then... but it's better that I don't tell you, but that you read it.
It's a Wonderful Dog is a story very suitable for any time of year, but especially for Christmas and to remind us to keep hope alive and that the best things come at Christmas.
I thank the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
The opinion I have expressed above is based solely on what I think and feel about this book.

[Hannah Bennett · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such an adorable, dog-filled twist on a Holiday classic. As an owner of both a Great Pyrenees and a Black Lab, it was a given that this book was going to be special for me. On top of that, It's a Wonderful Life has always been a Christmas favorite in my family. So going into this I was expecting tears, smiles, and lots of wonderful dog moments. I was NOT disappointed. This is THE feel-good holiday book for dog lovers this holiday season.

If you have a soft spot for dogs, small-town holiday stories, and Christmas Hallmark movies, or if you just love It's a Wonderful Life or Great Pyrenees in general, then please read this little gem of a book.

Huge thanks to the author for an advanced copy of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it! All the above thoughts are my own.

[Behind The Bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keri Salus has truly created a masterpiece with "It's a Wonderful Dog." This remarkable and heartwarming book has the power to deeply touch your soul. I have no doubt that it will stand the test of time and become a classic in its own right. It is a magical story that not only entertains but also imparts a valuable lesson. The love of an animal is truly the greatest gift one can have, and Salus beautifully captures this sentiment. Those who have experienced the loss of a beloved pet will find peace in the story shared within these pages. Even though I read this on my kindle, this phenomenal book has earned a special place on my bookshelf, and its impact on my heart is undeniable. It definitely would not be a wonderful life without our wonderful best friend. 🐾

[JRoach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable Story

My wife bought this book, out of curiosity I began read to read. This “Christmas Tail” of humans and their pets helping each other in so many ways was very well written. I was very impressed with how descriptive the author was in every scene and chapter. The book pulled me in as though I was there with the characters. Not wanting to put the book down, it drew me in while reading several chapters each day longing to find out what happens next. I highly recommended this book and look forward to any future books written by this author.

[R.K. Emery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was enthralled from beginning to the end. The writing is stunningly beautiful and makes the movie play in your head like you are really there.
Even though the plot was not too challenging to figure out, the book kept me entertained.
Perfect read for this time of the year. Cozy up and get your copy.

[Kasey Proulx · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Great Pyrenees owner myself, I felt an immediate connection to the story.The book is an uplifting reminder of the joy and unconditional love that dogs bring into our lives. Whether you’re a Great Pyrenees fan or not, this book is a charming celebration of the special relationship we share with our pets. I couldn’t recommend it more!

[Cindy Hite-Wilson · Rating 5 out of 5]

very heartfelt book

I enjoyed this book so very much, if you love your fur baby you will love this book. I really enjoy books where you get to hear them speak as I often wonder what my fur babies are thinking ❤️

[Brian Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 and rounded up because I love dogs and the message of the book. Plus the high points of the book were certainly 5 stars. Anyone who loves dogs will relate and anyone who has lost a dog will likely feel this one.

“Even a day of waiting is agony to him”

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

The narrator did a fabulous job bringing the characters and this story to life!!!

[Joe Sebek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great Christmas book

A wonderful book about love and miracles. A great companion to Its a Wonderful Life. I needed this story at this time.

[Cindy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A WONDERFUL DOG!!!

Since I was 4yo, dogs have been in my life. Sharing unconditional LOVE. Dog is God spelled backwards! Enough said!