• Craig & Fred

  • A Marine, a Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other
  • By: Craig Grossi
  • Narrated by: Craig Grossi
  • Length: 8 hrs and 5 mins
  • 4.8 out of 5 stars (396 ratings)

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Craig & Fred  By  cover art

Craig & Fred

By: Craig Grossi
Narrated by: Craig Grossi
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Publisher's summary

The uplifting and unforgettable true story of a US marine, the stray dog he met on an Afghan battlefield, and how they saved each other and now travel America together, "spreading the message of stubborn positivity".

In 2010, Sergeant Craig Grossi was doing intelligence work for Marine RECON - the most elite fighters in the corps - in a remote part of Afghanistan. While on patrol, he spotted a young dog "with a big goofy head and little legs" who didn't seem vicious or to run in a pack like most strays they'd encountered. After eating a piece of beef jerky Craig offered - against military regulations - the dog began to follow him. "Looks like you made a friend," another marine yelled. Grossi heard, "Looks like a Fred." The name stuck, and a beautiful, life-changing friendship was forged.

Fred not only stole Craig's heart; he won over the RECON fighters, who helped Craig smuggle the dog into heavily fortified Camp Leatherneck in a duffel bag - risking jail and Fred's life. With the help of a crew of DHL workers, a sympathetic vet, and a military dog handler, Fred eventually made it to Craig's family in Virginia.

Months later, when Craig returned to the US, it was Fred's turn to save the wounded marine from post-traumatic stress. Today, Craig and Fred are touching lives nationwide, from a swampy campground in a Louisiana State Park to the streets of Portland, Oregon, and everywhere in between.

A poignant and inspiring tale of hope, resilience, and optimism, with a timeless message at its heart - "it is not what happens to us that matters but how we respond to it" - Craig & Fred is a shining example of the power of love to transform our hearts and our lives.

©2017 Craig and Fred INC. (P)2017 HarperCollins Publishers

What listeners say about Craig & Fred

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  • Overall
    5 out of 5 stars
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    3 out of 5 stars
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    5 out of 5 stars

Looks like a Fred

I highly recommend this book. Listening to Craig tell his and Craig's story was time well spent. I enjoyed getting to know Craig and Fred. It was interesting and inspirational getting to hear from Craig directly on how he got Fred home.

My only critique is that Craig is not a professional performer. There were a few times it seemed like the flow wasn't quite there. Having said that, I wouldn't want anyone else to tell the story and enjoyed Fred's contribution as well (he makes a few noises in the background). For the most part Craig did great!

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9 people found this helpful

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Semper Fi

As an old Marine and law enforcement K9 handler it was a pleasure to have listened to your story. Thank you Marine.

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8 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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Uplifting

This is a great uplifting book which was much needed! This book reminded me even during times of hardship ie: covid if you look there is always something to be grateful for.

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6 people found this helpful

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    5 out of 5 stars
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You’ll never want it to end.

Perfect combination of humor and hope mixed in with terrible tragedy. It’s more than entertaining, you’ll walk away with a better outlook on life and a greater understanding of what our men and women go through when serving our country in combat zones. Thank you for sharing your story and for your service.

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5 people found this helpful

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Great, inspirational story!

This is the first audio book I’ve listened to and I couldn’t have picked a better one! I saw their story on the Dodo video Craig later references towards the end and immediately became curious about the book. Safe to say it did not disappoint. You will ride the ups and downs as Craig shares he and Fred’s story from their first encounter in Afghanistan to the adjustments they both faced in their new lives back in the US. If you are interested in the military, dogs, or just feel good true stories this book is for you!

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3 people found this helpful

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A good book for anyone struggling

There are so many "war" story books out there now adays but what makes Craig and Fred so unique and captivating is that it's a story about there friendship and struggles. It sheds light on a topic that vets, first responders, and every day people struggle with, PTSD. This book is another tool in the fight against. Thank you for sharing!

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2 people found this helpful

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Loved this book!

This is one of my favorite books ever. The story is so sweet and honest and I am so grateful that he rescue friend so that we can all be a part of it.

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2 people found this helpful

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Great Story

I was thrilled to listen to this book. Was sad when the story ended. Wanted it to keep going on to new adventures. Wonderful story and great to hear the author's voice narrating it.

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2 people found this helpful

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Feel great read. Authentic. Whole hearted.

This is a remarkable book. I have listened to hundreds of incredible books from audible but I’ve never been motivated to give a rating let alone write a review until now. The story is written and read in such a relatable way it feels like family. Some of the experiences the author has tug at your heart. I’m filled with respect and admiration for Craig and I know if I ever met Fred I’d love him to pieces. Thank you Craig for sharing your personal private experiences with us. I feel like I’ve grown a little as a person through the listening. I highly recommend it.

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Mutual Love

I'm a big dog lover (currently have 4 fur babies) and this story touched me in so many ways. It has something for most any type of reader. There are war stories, animal antics, deep friendships, travel and adventure. I recommend this book to any one and everyone.

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1 person found this helpful