“A Dog’s Purpose,” written by New York Times bestselling author W. Bruce Cameron, explores the meaning of life through the eyes of a dog—a story for all ages to enjoy.

The book’s protagonist is a dog who goes through reincarnations, each time getting closer to finding its meaning in this world. With each life, his owner, location and breed changes, although its personality remains the same. In its first life, it begins its journey as a neglected mutt named Toby.

The majority of the book is during its second reincarnation as a golden retriever puppy named Bailey, owned by a little boy named Ethan. As the story develops, the duo grow up together, sharing adventures and mistakes, never leaving each other’s sides.

The dog’s third chance at life brings a surprise as the reader and he discover that he has been born a female German shepherd. This time as K-9 unit officer Ellie, she risks it all to save countless lives, with one case ultimately leading to her retirement with the force. The dog returns one final time as a black lab where he is reunited with a past owner and an old friend.

In each lifetime, the dog learns more about his purpose in the world and the meaning of life. Its memories of people and adventures build his character, similar to those of a human. As the book progresses, the dog realizes that he has more than one purpose.

The reading level is from ages 7-12; however, the book is not a difficult read for younger people, and is entertaining for the adult audience.

The story has many strong messages and morals to live by. Some of these include quotes about love, loss, friendship and never giving up.

“Failure is not an option if success is just a matter of trying harder,” Cameron writes.

The movie adaptation arrives in theaters Jan. 27 with a PG rating for families to enjoy. The film, distributed by Universal Pictures, stars Britt Robertson, Dennis Quaid, Josh Gad, Peggy Lipton and Juliet Rylance. Gad, best known for the voice of Olaf of Frozen in 2013, voices the dog. Lasse Hallström directs the film. His other works include “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” “Hachi: A Dog’s Tale,” “Dear John” and “Safe Haven.”

From the trailer, there seems to be some minor differences between the film and book. In the movie’s summary, the dog’s story begins with Bailey instead of Toby. It seems as if Toby’s story is left out in the film. A corgi is also introduced as one of the dog’s reincarnations in the trailer, but he was never that type of breed in the book. Also, in the trailer, he is depicted as a mixed breed in his last life, but he was black lab in the novel.

Though there are some differences, it appears to have an identical plot and themes.

A human-like feel mixed with humor from a dog’s perspective of its owners, fellow dogs and cats creates an unforgettable experience. Beyond the themes of love, loss, ups and downs, this book includes comedy and tragedy to create a timeless “tail” for all ages.