The Dog That Whispered

A seemingly happy bachelor’s life is turned upside-down after he adopts a dog who’s convinced people he can talk in this heartwarming tale.

“Kraus makes 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 thought-provoking read.” —RT Book Reviews

Wilson Steele is a single professor and Vietnam veteran who likes living alone and the solitude of quiet hours spent near his reflecting pool. He’s fully resigned to the notion that it’s too late for him to have a family, but his mother disagrees. When she impulsively adopts Thurman, a rescued black lab mix, only to learn of her retirement community’s “no pets” policy, she forces Wilson to take in the lovable dog as a solution to both their problems. Surely he’d enjoy the company. She also tries to convince Wilson that Thurman has literally spoken—and has prophesizes the coming of grandchildren! Wilson admits Thurman’s growls sound like words, but he knows he’s just projecting his own thoughts onto the animal.

Furthermore, the dog’s arrival and Wilson’s new interest in human interaction are purely coincidental. So what if Wilson now strikes up conversation with neighbors who pass by on their walks or spends time with Emily, a widow with three children? It isn’t because Thurman encouraged him. Everyone knows that dogs can’t talk…can they?

“Kraus . . . charms fans again with his latest canine tale. . . . This sweet novel is for readers who love tales of sentient pets, or just well-told, simple stories of redemption and forgiveness.” —Publishers Weekly