No Dogs Allowed!
Grade 4-6–Fifth-grader Kristine Rankin is grieving for the recently deceased family horse. When she receives a puppy for her birthday, she is horrified by the idea of a new pet and instantly rejects the dog while trying to maintain a facade of liking her gift. She pretty much ignores Mattie, despite the pup's enthusiastic affection. Kristine has other issues to deal with as well. Her preoccupation with the dog has caused her to distance herself from her best friend, and now their relationship is in trouble, and she is worried about her grandfather's health. Also, a boy from school has been teasing her. He lives near her grandparents' house, and when he meets Mattie, he is instantly smitten with the dog. Kristine gradually gets to know him better, and her feelings for him begin to change. As events unfold, she finally learns that you have to open your heart to love, despite the risks. Kristine is likable and realistic as she struggles through her grief and resistance to emotional involvement with another pet. The book is written with humor and enough drama to keep readers interested, and they'll relate to the story and to Kristine's ultimate surrender to adorable Mattie. Also suggest Colby Rodowsky'sNot My Dog(Farrar, 1999) for a twist on the theme.–Alison Grant, West Bloomfield Township Public Library, MICopyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.--This text refers to theHardcoveredition.