Second Chances

Finding Redemption in Maine

By: Craig Grossi

Narrated by: Craig Grossi

Length: 8 hrs and 55 mins

Publisher's summary

The author of the heartwarming Craig and Fred tells the deeply emotional and inspiring story of the next phase of their lives together: working closely with prison inmates in Maine who raise and train puppies to become service dogs.

Former US Marine Craig Grossi and his dog Fred appeared on the Today Show and Rachael Ray and in schools, bookstores, and military bases across America as they told the uplifting story of how Craig found Fred, a stray, while serving in Afghanistan - and brought him home. During their travels, Craig was invited to speak at Maine State Prison - the penitentiary that inspired Stephen King’s famous Shawshank. While there, he met a group of very special inmates, participants in a program run by the nonprofit America’s Vet Dogs.

Craig discovered that many of the prisoners are veterans - former soldiers serving their country in an entirely different way: by transforming purebred Labrador Retrievers from floppy puppies into indispensable companions for disabled vets. These service dogs literally and figuratively open doors for men and women, offering hope and a renewed sense of freedom.

Yet these disabled vets are not the only lives changed by these dogs. The inmates who train them “are given a purpose, they’re given experience, and most importantly they’re given a sense of self-worth,” Craig explains. “The men at Maine State are given a second chance - something that I believe everyone deserves.” For Craig, the visit had a profound impact. “There was something special going on inside its walls and it was calling out to me. I quickly realized that the program and its men had something to show the world.”

In this emotionally powerful book, he introduces these men and challenges us to look deeper, to see them as human beings deserving of a new shot at life. “We’re quick to give second chances to celebrities, politicians, and famous athletes when they screw up,” Craig reminds us, “but when it comes to those who’ve been convicted for their mistakes, we too often dismiss them as forever lost.” Second Chances poignantly shows that no life is irredeemable and that each of us can make a difference if given the opportunity.

©2021 Craig Grossi (P)2021 HarperCollins Publishers

Loved the next chapter in the life of this Marine and his dog Feed

The interaction and stories with the inmates and the dog program.
Missed hearing more about Fred.
Would love to hear a new book on the stories and adventures of you Nora and Fred.
Did not like the politics at the end however.

Second Chances

This is a fanominal book. I enjoyed every second of it. The author reading it was a big bonus. I will definitely be relistening to this audio book again. love, love, love it.

What a great story!

Both of Craig’s books are such a joy. His narration really brings you in. You feel like he is sitting by your side, telling you his story.

enjoyed this story

I read the first Craig and Fred book, so I had to continue the saga. Loved this book. Admire the author and I'm sure that I would be captivated by Fred!

Great

This is a great book. Very informative about a subject most know nothing about ( prison life) and the dog training parts were interesting This is the second of Craig’s books and he is an wonderful, engaging writer. Looking forward to more books by him.

Loved the story

Story was wonderful. Performance was good, soused a little hesitant at times though. I will recommend to other.

I’m glad it was helpful to all to tell this story

The author needs to have a more skilled narrator. I nearly turned this otherwise good book off. His narration was clumsy and painful to listen to.

Truthful Humanizing Tale

Thought provoking heartfelt well written and narrated story. Insightful life Messages for all. Originally started this Audible because it’s a dog feel good story that included military experiences but have taken away life lessons from this. I liked the first book Craig and Fred but Second Chances is the book I want in paperback to reread earmark and quote

Excellent, touching, important

I thoroughly enjoyed the humor and heart of Craig's second book. Although it doesn't focus on his dog Fred as much as the first one, it still highlights the powerful lessons that dogs and our relationship with them can teach us through the eyes of a dog training program done by inmates. this book is so very human and spiritual, and it continues the message of the importance of vulnerability and stubborn positivity. It's a beautiful read. The last few chapters especially hold such gold. Thank you Craig for being a vessel of love and transformation through your writing and through your service to others.

A fantastic audible read!

Mr. Grossi outdid himself. This book was inspiring, teachable and heartwarming. Can’t wait for his next book.