Martin, Ann M. Because of Shoe.

Martin, Ann M.    Because of Shoe.  Macmillan/Henry Holt    261p  $15.99      978-0-8050-9314-8 elm/ms            VG      Animal stories   

The nine short stories in this collection are organized by reading level, from the easiest-to-read to the most difficult.  This allows readers at many levels to enjoy the heartwarming and funny dog stories, written by several famous authors who are not especially known for animal stories.  The stories included in this collection are sometimes hilariously funny, or poignant, or thoughtful, or endearing.  The styles vary as well.  One is written in free verse.
 

There is a story about Max the Dax catching a dog-napper, a story about a boy and dog who rescue a little lost boy, stories from the dog’s point of view, and one about how Shoe got her name.  There is a story about a dog named Peanut who is mistaken for a wolf, and even one about a boy who turns into a dog.  In short, a little bit of everything.  The book will be enjoyed by readers who love their dog, wish they had a dog, or fondly remember a past dog.

This book is recommended for grades 4-7.  Everyone will find at least one story he or she can relate to in this varied collection.
     

Short stories, Dog stories                                                                              -- Joan Theal