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A review by mezzarella
Oliver: The True Story of a Stolen Dog and the Humans He Brought Together by Alex Tresniowski, Steven J. Carino
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
3.0
Steven J. Carino writes a light-hearted true story fit for any slot on the Hallmark Channel. When Oliver is stolen from Carino's van on Valentine's Day, Carino's world falls apart. Carino has no other family or close friends other than Oliver, and it's clear the amount of love this man has for his fluffy companion. While Carino sets out to get Oliver back, he thinks about what sort of person would have even taken his dog in the first place. What occurs is a story that allows Carino to realize that he has more friends than he believed and that forgiveness is better than any revenge. (And for those wondering, yes, Oliver has a happy ending.)
While this story is a simple one, it maintains a consistent light-hearted tone which is greatly appreciated. In a time where there are plenty of news reports, memiors, and nonfiction stories focusing on corruption, illness, and hopeless situations, Carino brings a nonfiction story full of heart. While not every person will relate to the religious segments in this book, there are plenty of moments readers can relate to. Carino is facing an impossible situation, which leaves him feeling alone and helpless. Readers will be uplifted to learn how community and a hopeful heart cann come together to reunite family members, even when the odds are against the two ever seeing each other again.
In the end, Oliver won't likely hit the best nonfiction lists any time soon. The endearing moments where Carino imagines what little Oliver is thinking remains endearing. The story remains simple yet impactful. Sometimes, what readers need is a simple story that promises a smile. This is exactly what Oliver and Carino's story promises and delivers. This delightful story will pull on any dog lover's heartstrings.
While this story is a simple one, it maintains a consistent light-hearted tone which is greatly appreciated. In a time where there are plenty of news reports, memiors, and nonfiction stories focusing on corruption, illness, and hopeless situations, Carino brings a nonfiction story full of heart. While not every person will relate to the religious segments in this book, there are plenty of moments readers can relate to. Carino is facing an impossible situation, which leaves him feeling alone and helpless. Readers will be uplifted to learn how community and a hopeful heart cann come together to reunite family members, even when the odds are against the two ever seeing each other again.
In the end, Oliver won't likely hit the best nonfiction lists any time soon. The endearing moments where Carino imagines what little Oliver is thinking remains endearing. The story remains simple yet impactful. Sometimes, what readers need is a simple story that promises a smile. This is exactly what Oliver and Carino's story promises and delivers. This delightful story will pull on any dog lover's heartstrings.
Content Warnings
Minor: Kidnapping