Leader of the Pack

Gr 2-5–Scrapper, a three-legged dog with an endless enthusiasm for fetch, stars in this approachable transitional chapter book series opener. His human brother, a white boy named Hank, understands exactly how to throw a ball so Scrapper can keep up, a detail that gently establishes both the dog’s physical difference and the loving bond between him and Hank. When rumors surface of a monster in the nearby forest, Scrapper sets out to investigate, forming “Camp Monster-Finder” along the way. His best friend, Bo Davis, a hardworking sheepdog from a neighboring farm, can’t join the expedition, so Scrapper must seek new animal companions as he ventures into the woods. The large text, short sentences, and brief chapters make this an inviting choice for newly independent readers. Charming grayscale illustrations effectively convey character motion and emotion, supporting reader comprehension. The story’s light tension resolves with an emphasis on friendship rather than fear.