Review: The Pug List by Alison Hodgson

What happens if you cross a wheezing, snorting, not exactly house trained pug with a family who are reeling from the arson attack which ruined their home and trying to make sense of the future?

The Pug List documents the story of the Hodgson family from the day before the arson attack which ruined their home and possessions. Mum, Alison describes in detail the trauma not just of the immediate danger but also the ongoing battles and the reality of literally losing everything. With Grace and often, humour, we journey with them as they attempt to pick up the pieces – deal with legal fights and crippling post-traumatic stress.

For youngest daughter Eden this is the perfect time to get a pug and “The Relentless Campaign" begins. Prior to the fire, Alison was all set on getting a pug - and her family aren't about to let her forget it!

Enter, "Outrageous Oliver" the supposedly house trained, sneezing, black pug. As he wriggles his way into every space in their home so he wriggles into their hearts and begins to help them heal. As a family disjointed by tragedy, illness and the perils of growing up, Oliver brings them back together, finding joy in the everyday and bringing hope for the future. Strong evidence for the redemptive power of pets.

Throughout, the book the family’s faith shines through- tackling each obstacle with grace and tenacity. An inspirational reminder that though we might walk in the shadows, God walks with us. However, Alison is refreshingly honest about the difficulties of pressing on and forgiveness. She speaks not from a place of holier-than-thou preaching but from humility.

The Hodgson’s story might not end with a happy ever after, after all, life isn’t a scripted film. However, you’re left feeling that regardless of what curveballs are thrown at the Hodgson family they will face it with Grace, hope and a cuddly little dog named Oliver.