Revisit the story of Jesus through the eyes of man’s best friend—a special dog named Barley as his journey through ancient Jerusalem brings him face-to-face with cruelty, compassion, friendship, and the final days of Jesus in a deeply moving story about what it means to love faithfully.

Barley knows what makes a good life: a warm hearth, a full bowl, and people who love him.

In first-century Judea, the small, scruffy dog lives happily with Adah and Duv in their humble home outside Jerusalem. But when his beloved masters leave for the marketplace one morning and do not return, Barley does the only thing a faithful dog can do.

He goes looking for them.

His search carries him into a dangerous and unfamiliar Jerusalem, where on the outskirts of Jerusalem, Barley meets a homeless man and petty criminal named Samid. Together, Barley and his unlikely new master experience fresh struggles and new revelations. Soon Barley is swept up into the current of history, culminating in an unforgettable encounter with the truest master of all as he bears witness to the greatest story ever told.

Told with warmth, humor, heartbreak, and hope, The Dog Who Was There offers an unforgettable new perspective on the final days of Jesus. Through Barley’s innocent eyes, familiar events become startlingly immediate—and the meaning of loyalty, sacrifice, forgiveness, and unconditional love comes vividly to life.

The Dog Who Was There:

• Is for readers who enjoy biblical fiction, Christian historical fiction, or dog stories
• Blends historical fiction and biblical truths in a meaningful and heartfelt way
• Makes a great gift for friends, family, or readers in your life
• Includes discussion questions for book clubs