From the author of Horse Trouble comes a middle grade graphic novel perfect for fans of PAWS and Allergic! The story follows Ash, who is not exactly a dog person—but his parent are making him volunteer at the local animal shelter!
Ash is a good kid at heart. But his grades are slipping, and when he gets caught vandalizing an old building, it's the last straw for his mom. It's decided: Ash will spend some time away from the city, at his dad's place on Ferncliff Island.
It's bad enough that Ash has no friends on the island, but his parents are also making him do community service! He volunteers at the local animal shelter, even though he's not really a dog person. Dogs slobber! They smell! And the dogs at the shelter bark, bark, and bark. But as Ash bonds with the dogs—especially Cooper, a clever, fun-loving pointer that gives sloppy kisses—he starts to see that maybe his time on Ferncliff Island isn't a total loss.
Map. "How to Help," with photographs. Recipe for pumpkin carrot dog treats. Author's note. Cover sketches. Full-color illustrations were sketched by hand using Staedtler non-photo blue pencils. Digitally inked and colored in Adobe Photoshop using a Wacom Cintiq.
Topics Dogs. Human-animal relationships. Animal shelters. Family life. Vandalism. Islands. Community service. Pet adoption. Dog breeds. Blended families. Summer vacation. Skateboarding. Friendship.
Trim Size 8" x 5 1/2"
JLG Span Spring
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2024-10-28
JLG Release Date May 2025
Minimum grade 5
Maximum grade 8
Reading level Middle
Format Print
Graphic Novels Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
Graphic Novels Middle Plus
Graphic Novels Middle Plus (Grades 5-8)
For Grades 5-8
This 14-book collection features book-length graphic novels that bring stories to life through immersive visuals and compelling narratives. With a mix of humor, adventure, and thought-provoking themes, these selections provide an engaging reading experience that can turn even reluctant readers into eager ones.