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The Dog That Whispered
Bestselling author Jim Kraus returns with a heartwarming tale about a dog who has people convinced he can talk.
Wilson Steele is a single professor and Vietnam veteran who likes living alone, insisting it's too late for him to have a family. His mother disagrees. When she impulsively adopts a rescued black lab mix, she insists Thurman is special, and has whispered of the coming of grandchildren. Wilson brushes the notion off as fantasy. When his mother learns of her retirement community's 'no pets' policy, she forces Wilson to take the lovable dog. Wilson notices Thurman's growls do sound like words, but he knows he's just projecting his own thoughts on the animal. If Wilson is talking to neighbors on their walks, and spending time with Emily, a widow with three children, it isn't because Thurman encouraged him. After all, everyone knows dogs can't talk...can they?
Wilson Steele is a single professor and Vietnam veteran who likes living alone, insisting it's too late for him to have a family. His mother disagrees. When she impulsively adopts a rescued black lab mix, she insists Thurman is special, and has whispered of the coming of grandchildren. Wilson brushes the notion off as fantasy. When his mother learns of her retirement community's 'no pets' policy, she forces Wilson to take the lovable dog. Wilson notices Thurman's growls do sound like words, but he knows he's just projecting his own thoughts on the animal. If Wilson is talking to neighbors on their walks, and spending time with Emily, a widow with three children, it isn't because Thurman encouraged him. After all, everyone knows dogs can't talk...can they?
336 pages, Paperback
First published June 7, 2016
49 people are currently reading
579 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
December 1, 2016
This was a very heartwarming story.
February 7, 2017
This was a great read. I loved it. Wilson thinks his dog can talk but thinks maybe he is just projecting that. Hazel comes into some money and decides to just quit her job and travel. She finds Wilson and he confesses he is her father. He also has a sweet future with Emily who he discovers. He looks to be having a better future because he let his mother talk him into taking Thurman. Thurman is the star of this book. It was a sweet read.
July 10, 2017
Every time I read one of Jim Kraus' books I think it's the best. I loved the interaction Thurman (the dog) has with Wilson, his owner.
This story was very powerful in focusing on PTSD for veterans and their families of the VietNam War.
The dual storylines came together perfectly, without a rush, at the end.
This story was very powerful in focusing on PTSD for veterans and their families of the VietNam War.
The dual storylines came together perfectly, without a rush, at the end.
February 23, 2020
3.5 stars.
August 10, 2017
Interaction between characters (human or canine) is well written and fun to read. Thurman the dog is so spot on for lab excitement. A heartwarming story.
March 11, 2019
You've probably heard of animal whisperers, but this might be the very first time that you've heard of a dog that does the whispering. Truman, a mixed lab, was adopted by Gretna, who lives in a retirement community which does not allow dogs. To solve the dilemma, she persuades her son, Wilson, into taking care of the dog until the problem can be rectified (i.e. finding a new home for Truman). Wilson is a professor and a Vietnam veteran, who is distant and somewhat reclused, living through the emotional remnants of a war.
Once at Wilson's home, Truman wastes no times in settling in. Slowly but surely, he worms his way into Wilson's heart by becoming his canine companion and confidant. I like the gentle and subtle way that the story approaches the matter of PTSD, because while there are those sufferers who actively seek out help, there are others (like Wilson), who remain mired in guilt and trauma, not believing that they are worthy of being treated and absolved.
In a very non-judgmental, non-intrusive way, Truman manages to break through to Wilson. And because the opening up -- talking to a dog, and extrapolating introspective and intelligent answers from growled-back responses -- occurs in a non-threatening environment, the healing can finally begin. It surely helps that the person is caring for someone other than him-/herself, especially if it is an animal/pet that relies on you completely for its needs.
There are other threads in this plot, but I'll just focus on how delightful it was that Truman (and in fact, any dog) was portrayed as being the bridge and connector between individuals, regardless of their dispositions. I also like how a dog, that was not trained as a service animal, was showcased as being able to bring healing, direction, and closure to individuals who didn't even know they needed it.
Once at Wilson's home, Truman wastes no times in settling in. Slowly but surely, he worms his way into Wilson's heart by becoming his canine companion and confidant. I like the gentle and subtle way that the story approaches the matter of PTSD, because while there are those sufferers who actively seek out help, there are others (like Wilson), who remain mired in guilt and trauma, not believing that they are worthy of being treated and absolved.
In a very non-judgmental, non-intrusive way, Truman manages to break through to Wilson. And because the opening up -- talking to a dog, and extrapolating introspective and intelligent answers from growled-back responses -- occurs in a non-threatening environment, the healing can finally begin. It surely helps that the person is caring for someone other than him-/herself, especially if it is an animal/pet that relies on you completely for its needs.
There are other threads in this plot, but I'll just focus on how delightful it was that Truman (and in fact, any dog) was portrayed as being the bridge and connector between individuals, regardless of their dispositions. I also like how a dog, that was not trained as a service animal, was showcased as being able to bring healing, direction, and closure to individuals who didn't even know they needed it.
June 30, 2016
Do you talk to your dog? Does your dog talk to you?
Kraus has created another delightful novel about an insightful dog who talks. Well, Thurman sort of growls but some people can understand exactly what he is saying. That would include Wilson Steele. He's an English professor with a past that includes horrors from Viet Nam. He'd made such a mess of his life back then that he is convinced God would never forgive him. He is certain too that he must live in solitude, not deserving a family.
But his mother has other ideas. She impulsively adopts a rescue dog. When the retirement home will not let her keep it, she makes Wilson take him. She knows he could use the companionship. That is the beginning of a relationship that changes Wilson's life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It is an entertaining novel about character transformation and healing. Kraus has woven together the lives of several people who need a touch of love and a gentle push in the right direction. Thurman is the dog for the job. He knows exactly the right phrase to growl (or say) to move people toward the place where God can heal them.
This is a great book for dog lovers. It's great for people who like to read novels showing how God works events to bring people the healing they need and the relationships that enrich them. That God uses a dog is a fun and rewarding aspect of the novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
Kraus has created another delightful novel about an insightful dog who talks. Well, Thurman sort of growls but some people can understand exactly what he is saying. That would include Wilson Steele. He's an English professor with a past that includes horrors from Viet Nam. He'd made such a mess of his life back then that he is convinced God would never forgive him. He is certain too that he must live in solitude, not deserving a family.
But his mother has other ideas. She impulsively adopts a rescue dog. When the retirement home will not let her keep it, she makes Wilson take him. She knows he could use the companionship. That is the beginning of a relationship that changes Wilson's life.
I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It is an entertaining novel about character transformation and healing. Kraus has woven together the lives of several people who need a touch of love and a gentle push in the right direction. Thurman is the dog for the job. He knows exactly the right phrase to growl (or say) to move people toward the place where God can heal them.
This is a great book for dog lovers. It's great for people who like to read novels showing how God works events to bring people the healing they need and the relationships that enrich them. That God uses a dog is a fun and rewarding aspect of the novel.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher for the purpose of an independent and honest review.
November 9, 2019
If you love dogs ;-)
This books deals with healing from past hurts. Many of us function day to day without ever dealing with our past hurts. The book is about the healing and forgiveness offered by Christ to those who accept, believe, and repent. This is also a book about a dog and the relationship that develops with a Vietnam Veteran. I adopted a German Shepherd a few years ago that was a talker. I loved her dearly and Thurman very much reminded me of her.
This books deals with healing from past hurts. Many of us function day to day without ever dealing with our past hurts. The book is about the healing and forgiveness offered by Christ to those who accept, believe, and repent. This is also a book about a dog and the relationship that develops with a Vietnam Veteran. I adopted a German Shepherd a few years ago that was a talker. I loved her dearly and Thurman very much reminded me of her.
December 28, 2016
This was a cute story about a dog who seemed to talk to his owners and a man in need of healing (and a human companion). It was pretty predictable, but still an enjoyable, read which would have been better without the overt Christian message. There's nothing wrong with bringing God into a story, but I feel like most authors overdo it at the expense of the characters and plot.
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January 15, 2017This novel blends some canine whimsy with a poignant story of long-term post-war stress. William's hardened emotional shell was nearly impenetrable. I loved Thurman's influence as he "whispered" comments to William at key moments. I also liked Hazel's story as it ultimately revealed a relationship with William. Highly recommended as a quality post-war story.
December 16, 2017
A friend picked this out for me. I love dogs, and I love to read. This book was destined to be a success. It isn't a literary masterpiece, but it is a really great book. I loved the themes of redemption, forgiveness, and family. They are all themes I needed to read right now, and the fact that a dog was one of the main characters was icing on the cake.
November 7, 2019
My heart is happy!
I loved this story of redemption, connection, discernment, growth, and the awesome saving grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ. I will never forget it, nor Thurman, and look forward to the next masterful novel!
I loved this story of redemption, connection, discernment, growth, and the awesome saving grace of our Lord, Jesus Christ. I will never forget it, nor Thurman, and look forward to the next masterful novel!
March 20, 2017
If you like dogs, believe in God or know someone with PTSD you may enjoy this novel. Although every character is in emotional turmoil the only character I connected with was the--ah--dog.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 13, 2018
This was a delightful, easy winter read. It was a bit preachy in a couple spots but, overall just a lovely story featuring a very ‘happy muppet’.
August 1, 2023
‘16 - READ ‘23 - 5 STARS
DESCRIPTION : Wilson Steele is a single professor and Vietnam veteran who likes living alone, insisting it's too late for him to have a family. His mother disagrees. When she impulsively adopts a rescued black lab mix, she insists Thurman is special, and has whispered of the coming of grandchildren. Wilson brushes the notion off as fantasy. When his mother learns of her retirement community's 'no pets' policy, she forces Wilson to take the lovable dog. Wilson notices Thurman's growls do sound like words, but he knows he's just projecting his own thoughts on the animal. If Wilson is talking to neighbors on their walks, and spending time with Emily, a widow with three children, it isn't because Thurman encouraged him. After all, everyone knows dogs can't talk. . . can they?
REVIEW :
First book by this author for me. Sale $2.99; reg 9.99 Spotted it on sale and the cover just jumped out to me. Plus I LOVE A BOOK where the dog “talks”.
Some of the reviews warn about some religious passages but I have no trouble with that. A book that makes me laugh a few times in the first few minutes, must be worth a read! I like the writing right away. Some mystery of where a couple of people will connect down the road keeps me guessing. Love the dog helping Wilson get out & change his life. A very soothing read that I totally enjoyed. Our lives can change at any age in unexpected ways; pains heal, lives go in new directions, new friends find their ways to us & hopefully we all find our own peace.
I guess Jim Kraus will be added to my list of favorite “dog” authors; J.K. Brandon, W. Bruce Cameron & Susan Wilson.
DESCRIPTION : Wilson Steele is a single professor and Vietnam veteran who likes living alone, insisting it's too late for him to have a family. His mother disagrees. When she impulsively adopts a rescued black lab mix, she insists Thurman is special, and has whispered of the coming of grandchildren. Wilson brushes the notion off as fantasy. When his mother learns of her retirement community's 'no pets' policy, she forces Wilson to take the lovable dog. Wilson notices Thurman's growls do sound like words, but he knows he's just projecting his own thoughts on the animal. If Wilson is talking to neighbors on their walks, and spending time with Emily, a widow with three children, it isn't because Thurman encouraged him. After all, everyone knows dogs can't talk. . . can they?
REVIEW :
First book by this author for me. Sale $2.99; reg 9.99 Spotted it on sale and the cover just jumped out to me. Plus I LOVE A BOOK where the dog “talks”.
Some of the reviews warn about some religious passages but I have no trouble with that. A book that makes me laugh a few times in the first few minutes, must be worth a read! I like the writing right away. Some mystery of where a couple of people will connect down the road keeps me guessing. Love the dog helping Wilson get out & change his life. A very soothing read that I totally enjoyed. Our lives can change at any age in unexpected ways; pains heal, lives go in new directions, new friends find their ways to us & hopefully we all find our own peace.
I guess Jim Kraus will be added to my list of favorite “dog” authors; J.K. Brandon, W. Bruce Cameron & Susan Wilson.
September 28, 2018
Emotional
Even though the story line was predictable from very early on, the way the story unfolded was enough to keep my interest. My only real criticism is that the "mysterious...how will these stories come together?" ploy was so unnecessary. It didn't really add anything to the overall read...if anything, because it was so obvious, it also became a little tiresome. Either masking it better to keep the reader guessing, or just a straightforward retelling may have been a better way to approach the subject. I mean, come on...you have a talking dog! That is enough to keep the interest of your reader without reverting to cheap theatrics.
That said, Thurman is such a personable, charming and charismatic animal...humorous in his very "dogness" that he is able to hold on to even though he can speak, that even with all the above criticism, my interest was not lost. It makes me wonder what the author could do relating stories to us in a more serious and straightforward manner. I would think that would be the ticket to launch a career where his name becomes recognized easily by even those who don't read regularly. Don't limit your talent and you will be amazing and not just a niche artist.
Even though the story line was predictable from very early on, the way the story unfolded was enough to keep my interest. My only real criticism is that the "mysterious...how will these stories come together?" ploy was so unnecessary. It didn't really add anything to the overall read...if anything, because it was so obvious, it also became a little tiresome. Either masking it better to keep the reader guessing, or just a straightforward retelling may have been a better way to approach the subject. I mean, come on...you have a talking dog! That is enough to keep the interest of your reader without reverting to cheap theatrics.
That said, Thurman is such a personable, charming and charismatic animal...humorous in his very "dogness" that he is able to hold on to even though he can speak, that even with all the above criticism, my interest was not lost. It makes me wonder what the author could do relating stories to us in a more serious and straightforward manner. I would think that would be the ticket to launch a career where his name becomes recognized easily by even those who don't read regularly. Don't limit your talent and you will be amazing and not just a niche artist.
July 7, 2022
A great story about the healing power of dogs…especially if he (Thurman) talks to you…or is this “a decades-old psychosis or trauma or a severe, long-term manifestation of some horrible, long-buried post-traumatic stress disorder…”
Did you ever give two weeks notice and quit your job? “And during those last two weeks, what do people do with you while you’re still at work? It’s like you’re dead—but not just yet. A lot of sad, fake smiles. And then someone steals your stapler and tape dispenser.”
Truth: “Being alone is not the same as being lonely.”
“Dogs have the edge on humans…They seem only to have the present—that is, the only thing they truly know is right now. Whatever happened to them in the past, painful or happy, doesn’t follow them about like a boomerang.”
It is true that no one who lives in (or has ever lived in) San Francisco ever calls it San Fran.
“Having knowledge is not the same as having wisdom.”
So we have a lost soul on each coast that decide to try “this praying rigamarole.”
Did you ever give two weeks notice and quit your job? “And during those last two weeks, what do people do with you while you’re still at work? It’s like you’re dead—but not just yet. A lot of sad, fake smiles. And then someone steals your stapler and tape dispenser.”
Truth: “Being alone is not the same as being lonely.”
“Dogs have the edge on humans…They seem only to have the present—that is, the only thing they truly know is right now. Whatever happened to them in the past, painful or happy, doesn’t follow them about like a boomerang.”
It is true that no one who lives in (or has ever lived in) San Francisco ever calls it San Fran.
“Having knowledge is not the same as having wisdom.”
So we have a lost soul on each coast that decide to try “this praying rigamarole.”
August 12, 2019
Kraus creates a wise, though simple, character in Thurman the dog. Kraus has the ability to make Thurman's thoughts come to life in a way that is believable for a dog- altruistic, loyal, simplistic, and honest. While the idea of a dog talking is obviously far-fetched, this novel is fun and hits on important issues, namely the mental health of veterans. The Dog that Whispered is a fast, yet thoughtful read.
SUMMARY: When Wilson Steele agrees to watch his aging mothers dog for a few days, he has no idea that this decision will change his life. As he takes care of the dog, Thurman, he believes he is going crazy in thinking the dog is communicating with and understanding him. Is Wilson simply projecting his thoughts and making this all up, or is it something more? As Thurman prods him to revisit his past and come to terms with his choices, Wilson resists until someone shows up at his front door that brings his whole life to a standstill.
SUMMARY: When Wilson Steele agrees to watch his aging mothers dog for a few days, he has no idea that this decision will change his life. As he takes care of the dog, Thurman, he believes he is going crazy in thinking the dog is communicating with and understanding him. Is Wilson simply projecting his thoughts and making this all up, or is it something more? As Thurman prods him to revisit his past and come to terms with his choices, Wilson resists until someone shows up at his front door that brings his whole life to a standstill.
December 2, 2018
This is a book that I picked up the massive library sale entirely because of its cover. Look at that face, seriously. I am not a big fan of faith type books, but I loved this book. I love how a dog, albeit a very special dog, that can communicate with certain humans, helps heal everyone. Dogs have a way to see past it all, to just be there, or to push you, or to keep you going. I lost my beloved Sheltie in October, and I'd like to think she's up there with her sister and my dad. Just like when I walk my dad's Sheltie, I feel like he's with us. Dogs have a way of keeping me sane (except when they driving me crazy), of keeping me distracted, or giving me something to always do. I highly recommend this book. I'll check out his other book too.
October 25, 2018
First off, the underlying theme of this book is the religious message about finding Jesus. Being a non-practicing atheist I find that off-putting, BUT the book is saved by the main character, Thurman, the dog who thinks he can talk (as do some of the people). Overall, this is a feel good story about dealing with deep emotional trauma, that is somewhat predictable. But the antics of such a natural Lab as Thurman kept me reading. I'd recommend this to dog lovers (you can easily skip over the religious messaging). To those looking for the religious messages: you can't skip over the dog - he's a hoot. Spoiler follows hidden:.... . ....!
August 2, 2017
Meh, I used to like these novels back when my English level wasn't good enough and I was lacking books to read... but right now, I got through the book just because a friend gave it to me and I wanted to finish it.
The premise itself is interesting and the plot is nice, but the writing wasn't as good as I expected it to be. (Thank you, Dean Koontz and Ted Dekker, for making it harder to enjoy books that aren't as good as yours...)
The premise itself is interesting and the plot is nice, but the writing wasn't as good as I expected it to be. (Thank you, Dean Koontz and Ted Dekker, for making it harder to enjoy books that aren't as good as yours...)
July 7, 2019
I would have enjoyed this more with less religion, but that's my fault for not reading an excerpt, though I'm about sure reading the first 10 or so chapters wouldn't have helped as it is more religion loaded as the book goes on.
That said, I loved the concept of the shelter dog being adopted, foisted upon a non-dog person, then his ability to speak being revealed.
The fact that there are a few different stories being told which are tied together as the book goes on is nice.
That said, I loved the concept of the shelter dog being adopted, foisted upon a non-dog person, then his ability to speak being revealed.
The fact that there are a few different stories being told which are tied together as the book goes on is nice.
December 25, 2021
What do you do when you feel you need to adopt a Labrador Retriever but you're in a nursing home that won't let her keep him? Why, of course, you call up your middle aged bachelor son and have him take care of the dog. By the way, the dog told the lady he agreed with that set up. And naturally the son knows it's impossible for the dog to communicate with humans, even though the dog seems to be whispering things to him.
September 5, 2022
True dog people know their dogs are talking to them, so although this is named a novel it feels like a true story. While not my normal genre, I had troubles putting this book down! The book weaves together the journey of 4 characters in a seamless, captivating way, anchored by the interactions with a shelter dog that seems to talk. The character development is smooth and rich, like a good cup of coffee. I highly recommend pouring a cup, or a pot, and not moving until this story is finished.
October 1, 2022
I enjoyed this story. It is a forgiveness and redemption story. And any book that has a dog is ok by me.
"until i decided that knowing about God is not the same as living for God, that having knowledge is not the same as having wisdom. It takes a person willing to admit that they are flawed and human and that they only have a simple understanding of life to really it - to get what life means - and to be fully aware of God's place in relationship to us"
"until i decided that knowing about God is not the same as living for God, that having knowledge is not the same as having wisdom. It takes a person willing to admit that they are flawed and human and that they only have a simple understanding of life to really it - to get what life means - and to be fully aware of God's place in relationship to us"
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September 16, 2021Wonderful Story!
Thurman was everybody's "True North"in this story! As a dog lover and believer that dogs are sentient and amazingly intuitive, I can certainly believe that Thurman's humans were not merely projecting words onto his growling "whispers," but we're actually hearing him speak.
Thurman was everybody's "True North"in this story! As a dog lover and believer that dogs are sentient and amazingly intuitive, I can certainly believe that Thurman's humans were not merely projecting words onto his growling "whispers," but we're actually hearing him speak.
July 10, 2017
A delightful quick read centered around an adorable rescue dog and the people whose lives he touches. Faith, old wounds, God's promises and entwining stories come together to a satisfying conclusion. Great summer read!
April 21, 2018
Simple reminders
What I liked about this book is the subtle way Jim Kraus reminded us that we are all broken in some way. I loved the way he took the brokenness of the characters to show us how we God's grace can heal us and make us whole if we let him.
What I liked about this book is the subtle way Jim Kraus reminded us that we are all broken in some way. I loved the way he took the brokenness of the characters to show us how we God's grace can heal us and make us whole if we let him.
July 23, 2019
I wasn't expecting to like this book as much as I did. It was a cute story but also seemed pretty realistic too for the most part. I liked the characters and their progression. The book also had a good message about forgiveness and what Jesus offers is.
November 16, 2019
Happy happy dance of joy
Loved this book. Loved everything about it. So heart warming. I'm so glad for Wilson to find his joy in God and life. What can I sT about Thurman. Such a delight. I can see him dancing his dance
Loved this book. Loved everything about it. So heart warming. I'm so glad for Wilson to find his joy in God and life. What can I sT about Thurman. Such a delight. I can see him dancing his dance
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews