by Patricia MacLachlan
From the author of the Newbery Award winning Sarah, Plain, and Tall comes a heartwarming family story laced with a touch of fantasy. Ten-year-old William and his four-year-old sister, Elinor, are sad. Their father has left their home to pursue a writing career, and no one knows if and when he will return. As a way to fill the void of their father's absence, Will's mother decides to go to the local animal shelter to adopt a dog. There are four dogs at the shelter, each with their own personality, and the family decides to take all four of them home. They have even adopted Lula the cat. Happily, Bry, Bitty, Neo, Grace, and Lula not only get along well with each other; but they also take good care of their new human family. In addition to trailing them all over the house and being their sleeping companions, the animals seem to have the uncanny ability to know what Mama, William, and Elinor are thinking and feeling, and they quickly respond to their needs. Then one day Elinor casually states that Grace the greyhound told her she wants Granny to knit a blue doggie coat for her. The rest of the family chalks this up to the four-year-old's imagination. But soon Will hears the thoughts of Neo, and he realizes that all of the pets know how to speak; he just had to be brave enough to listen to them. And their advice is quite good for happier family relationships. Soon Mama has more big news to share. Will this bit of good news finally bring Papa home for good? For those who love animals and happy endings, this short novel is perfect for newly independent readers, as well as a good family read-aloud at bedtime.
Recommended for grades 3 and up
Reviewed by Rozanne Porter
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