An energetic beagle puppy helps a shy boy open up and make some friends in his neighborhood.

It does what it sets out to do, but there just isn't much to it. ( )

6 copies

Independent Reading Level: Grade 2

In my opinion, this is a good book for young readers; especially those who love dogs. I like this book because the plot is well-organized and intriguing. The story is about a young boy named Bobby who seeks friendship but is too shy to confront peers he wishes to be friends with. The boy receives a puppy, Lucy for his birthday, who surprisingly is the exact opposite of shy. The boy and the puppy develop a loving friendship and the puppy actually helps the boy learn how to be confident just like her. Eventually, Bobby begins making friends, and he has his first friend, Lucy to thank for giving him the confidence to take chances and initiate friendship with others. I like this plot because it draws the reader in. There is a clear problem that intrigues the reader- Bobby is too shy to make friends, as well as a happy ending in which the problem is solved with the help of the most loved pet- a dog. I also enjoyed the characters of this book because they are believable. I think many children can relate to the main character’s struggle of lacking confidence, and the fact that a dog helps the boy to come out of his shell is sure to be pleasing to children. The big idea of this book is to teach about friendship and to encourage readers to be adventurous and feel self-assured. ( )

Book Links, March 2007, page 48:

"A dog's mere presence in a child's life can sometimes improve it, and such is the case when Lucy, the beagle enters shy Bobby Quinn's life." This chapter book "will entertain readers."