A sweet tale of second chances.
Miss Lottie gives animals a home who took different paths in their lives before finding this loving woman. From left to right is Gus the pack leader; Tank, the guardian; Roo, a three legged pup with a powerful nose; and little Moon Pie, who thinks his previous owner is still alive.
There’s also a cat, Ghost, who keeps her distance but feels safe under MIss Lottie’s care. Finally off to the side, the dark, ominous figure is the new arrival, Decker. He plans to get rid of everyone so he can claim this place as his own. One other human character is Quinn, a neighbor boy who helps out with the dogs and likes this life better than the one he has at home.
The third person narration has each chapter focusing on a different character with Gus getting most of the attention. The animals and humans also have a “Before” chapter detailing what their life was like previously. It’s a great way to have the tale unfold.
Themes of family, loyalty, and love make this a memorable story, perfect as a read-aloud or to enjoy with your own pet at your side.
BOOK BIRTHDAY: July 6, 2021 PAGE COUNT: 256
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: SECONDHAND DOGS by Carolyn Crimi
- The important relationship connecting humans and their pets is brought forth in winning fashion. At the core is love, and how it often heals and changes things for the better.
- Illustrations throughout add to the appeal of this pleasing tale. The faces of each character tell their own story.
- Even if you’re not a dog lover, you might become one after spending time with this pack.
- Many opportunities for discussion about each character’s problems in life. A good selection for a classroom, family, or reading club.
- Every plot point comes to a satisfying conclusion. Nice character arcs for all including the nasty Decker.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Carolyn Crimi received her MFA in Writing for Children from Vermont College in 2000. She has published over 15 books, including Dear Tabby, Don’t Need Friends, Boris and Bella, Henry and the Buccaneer Bunnies, Where’s My Mummy?, and I Am the Boss of this Chair. Her book There Might Be Lobsters won The Golden Kite Award in 2018 for Best Picture Book Text, and her middle grade debut, Weird Little Robots, was named a BEA Book Buzz pick. Carolyn has received over thirty state awards and award nominations and was given The Prairie State Award in 2012 for her body of work. You can visit Carolyn at carolyncrimi.com.
Facebook: Carolyn Crimi Twitter: @crims10
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I’ll be participating in the UNFORGOTTEN Blog Tour this Wednesday. Stop by again for a chance to win a copy.
Comments are welcome below and be sure to visit all the other MMGM bloggers today!
Always in the Middle... 
I’m not usually a fan of this type of story but it sounds interesting.
It is truly unbelievable how quickly bloggers are reading/recommending this book—your review is the sixth I’ve seen since last Monday! Like Natalie, I’m not usually a fan of animal books (I’m not opposed to them, but I don’t seek them out), but this one sounds like it has some well-developed characters and intriguing points of view! Thanks so much for the great review!
I always like to see what other people have to say about a book I have also read. I agree, this is such a heartwarming dog story about rescues and second chances.
Miss Lottie has such a big heart for dogs . Sounds like a great read for dog lovers — especially with the alternating voices. Kids will enjoy this great summer read! Thanks for sharing!
This is such a fun book – if you love stories about dogs, and about the people who love them, then this one’s for you. I just finished reading my copy – and have yet to post a review…
That cover is so cute. All those little pups. You make this sound like a lot of fun. How could one resist? Thanks for telling me about this one.