MAXI’S SECRETS by Lynn Plourde tells the story of a boy and his dog dealing with school, bullies, and life.
As a bribe for moving to a new town, Timminy receives a dog that he discovers is deaf. In his new school where his father is the assistant principal, Timminy worries about becoming the target of bullies. However Maxi and blind neighbor help him deal with life in middle school. Each chapter contains an interesting secret that applies to the story as well as life.
Librarians will find this title popular with both middle grade students who enjoy humor as well as dog lovers. With a diverse cast of fascinating characters and age-appropriate humor, this title will be a popular selection. However it’s important to note that like many dog books, it’s a tear-jerker.
To learn more about the author, go to http://www.lynnplourde.com/.
Published by Nancy Paulsen Books, an imprint of Penguin Publishing on August 23, 2016. ARC courtesy of the publisher. ( )

This is a great middle school book that is both poignant and well written. Right away you learn that Timmony's dog, Maxi is going to die, we just don't know how or when. Timmony is struggling with being the new kid at his middle school, he's bullied for being so short and to make matters worse, his dad is the new vice principal.
Timmony finally gets the dog he has been craving and it's love at first sight. Maxi the dog gives Timmony something to look forward to when he returns from school. When Timmony meets his new next door neighbor, Abby, he finally begins to feel like he is fitting in. Despite Abby being blind, the two become fast friends.
This is a great book full of adventures between a boy and his dog and the start of some strong friendships. And yes, I even cried a bit too. I received a complimentary e-copy from the publisher in exchange for a review. ( )

Timminy moves away from the big city to a small town. Not only being the new boy in town, Timminy is also very short for his age, causing Middle School to be quite a challenge. Timminy talks his parents into getting a dog. They soon discover Maxi is deaf. As Timminy struggles with middle-school life, Maxi, and his neighbor, Abby, help Timminy find his inner strength.

Author Lynn Plourde writes a loving tale that will tug at your heart. Who could not love a story about the “underdog” and root for them the whole way? The main characters teach the reader to believe in themselves and a whole lot more. Maxi’s Secret # 22 “It’s better to focus on what you can do instead of what you can’t do.” If you choose to read this book, plan on falling in love with it and completing it in one sitting. You will not regret it! Best for grades 4 and up. ( )

I have not yet read this book.