One Dog and His Boy

Gr 3–6—Ten-year-old Hal has been provided every luxury a boy could ask for. His parents are incredibly wealthy and, while they think they are fulfilling his every wish, they are completely missing the mark. All Hal wants is a dog to call his own. To squash this desire, his parents surprise Hal with a dog—but it's a rent-a-pet and has to be returned after the weekend. Once Hal discovers his beloved dog Flek has been returned behind his back, he decides to run away so they can remain together. He devises a plan to take Flek and make the journey from London to Scotland where his grandparents live. He goes to Easy Pets to get Fleck back and meets Pippa, the kennel maid's sister, who joins him on the trip along with four other dogs. This story embodies the bravery and loyalty of children and the special relationship animals play in our lives. Steven Crossley's narration is beautiful and gives the story life and character. Ibbotson has created a wonderful tale (Scholastic, 2012) of love and redemption, and listeners will cheer for the characters.—Jessica Gilcreast, Bedford School District, NH