Review: A great book for girls ... as well as boys
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 10 16, 2012
I know it's a cliché, but this story captured me on page one, and kept me all the way through. Gently and carefully, the book deals with child abuse, and is told from the point of view of Jared, a fifth grader whose simple understanding of friendship is a refreshing contrast to his parents' more knowledgeable but less understanding one. At several points, early in the story, I wanted to yell at them for their prejudices and short-sighted behavior!With the help of several dogs (and a runaway cat), Jared makes friends with Sophie, a new girl in school. She's something of an enigma. None of the other kids like her, and it eventually unfolds that she's a victim of child abuse. Despite this, she comes across with dignity and grace ... and a sense of humor, which shows the resiliency of children her age. She is brave and resourceful, and very strong.In entertaining, well-written prose that doesn't talk down to kids, the author introduces canine therapy (for kids as well as seniors), animal shelters, and a wonderful older character who plays a big part in helping Jared and Sophie sort things out. In so many stories, adults are buffoons, which requires the kids to solve their own problems. This message is unrealistic, because kids who have problems need to know there are adults they gan go to who will help them and not let them down.I recommend this book for several reasons. It's a great read, with a great story and believable characters. The topic is handled with sensitivity--it's clear enough but without graphic details. For any parent who needs to address the issue of child abuse with a middle-grader, this book would be a great place to start.