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Annie Spruce, The Dog That Didn't Die

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In the woods of Alaska, an unexpected and bloody surprise awaits a family at a rural pull-off. Little did they know, the mess they stumbled upon would soon build the faith of a small girl, her family, and a homeless man.

Their story is a tender display of how, by answering the smallest of prayers, God shows us the bigness of Him.

Annie Spruce is the true account of an extraordinary dog who reminds us that amidst the messes of this life, there is joy and there is love. The story of Annie Spruce brings a message of family and friendship, and evokes a sense of delicate care that will delight all ages for generations to come.

142 pages, Paperback

First published November 15, 2014

338 people want to read

About the author

Cassandra Rankin

2 books9 followers
Cassandra Rankin proudly calls Alaska home. She her husband raise their children on a little farm in Alaska which boasts an ever changing clump of animals and 4-H projects.

In 2014, after publishing her first book, Cassandra won first place for Inspirational writing in the 83rd annual world-wide writing contest for Writer's Digest magazine. You can also find her pieces and her photos in Cirque, a literary journal for the north Pacific Rim. Her blog, This Crazy Little Farm (www.thiscrazylittlefarm.blog) is where she writes her heart out as her job and the farm chores allow.

Annie Spruce was Cassandra's first book. She pecks away at her second, This Crazy Little Farm, but she may be an old lady before she finishes. Her farm friends understand.

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Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews
Profile Image for Kathy Manns055.
243 reviews11 followers
March 1, 2015
Withhold not Thy tender mercies from me, O Lord:
let Thy loving kindness and Thy truth continually preserve me.
~ Psalm 40:11


Tender mercies. That’s the first thought that occurred to me when I finished Cassandra Rankin’s book, 'Annie Spruce, The Dog That Didn’t Die.'

God’s presence in our lives often takes form in the tender mercies we experience as we go about the ordinary business of living. We seem to expect God to show up only in the big things: illnesses miraculously cured, seas that part, manna dropping from heaven. Yet, we experience God’s grace most often in the small things. The person whose encouragement picks us up just when we need it, the warmth of a loved one’s caress, and the bright, happy eyes of our children – God hides in these gentle places, waiting for us to find him out.

Cassandra Rankin has a keen ability to recognize God’s presence in these tender areas of life. To illustrate His goodness and faithfulness, she uses the compelling story of a dog too courageous and strong-hearted to die. She and her family first met the sweet character they came to call Annie Spruce when they discovered her tied to a post, shot in the head and left to die in the Alaskan woods. They rescued Annie, got her medical care, and brought her home to live with them.

Eloquently, simply, Rankin shares the lessons that Annie taught the family about loyalty, trust, determination and love. In the telling of Annie’s story, she reminds us that God was the orchestrator of the events that occurred – just as He is in every story. Our job is to pay attention, to look for Him in the quiet places – and to be mindful that His ways are not ours, that He hears and answers prayers in His own time and in His own way.

I liked this book very much. I found it encouraging and uplifting. If you’re looking for a story to warm your heart, to remind you of God’s faithfulness, I recommend that you pick up a copy of 'Annie Spruce, The Dog That Didn’t Die.'
5 reviews2 followers
May 3, 2015
Annie Spruce was one of those stories that stay with you, deep down in your soul where heart warming things begin. You will finish it in one sitting, savoring each page and wishing for more once you reach the ending. Cassandra's writing comes at you like a warm welcoming hug from a dear friend. You wrap yourself up in it and carry it around with you. If you like dogs, this story is for you. If you like true Alaskan tales, this story is for you. If you like good writing, this story is for you. If you like stories that are hard to believe, because life can be that way then this story is certainly for you. Can't wait to see if there is a follow up book from the amazing Ms. Rankin!
1 review1 follower
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January 6, 2015
I really enjoyed the story of Annie. I am blessed to be a part of this saga. I have one of the puppies and I would not give this guy up ever. Annie is a great dog and her story is one that will touch your heart. It is amazing to me that she survived. Thanks to this wonderful family I now have a fabulous dog that I will love forever, I also have a new family of friends. It is so worth your time to read this book. It will touch you in so many ways, Annie's courage and her willingness to survive. The care that was given to her by this wonderful family and their willingness to part with these puppies. Thank you Cassie forever.......
415 reviews36 followers
December 1, 2015
Annie Spruce is an excellent read. It will warm your heart, fill your heart with pride, and make you cry. I highly recommend this story for anyone with a heart. Dog lovers will want to read about Annie Spruce. This is a must read. Thanks to Goodreads First Reads for this great book.
Profile Image for Bridget.
31 reviews
March 30, 2016
A quick read that makes you smile and cry. At the end of the book, my heart felt a little fuller.
Displaying 1 - 6 of 6 reviews

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