NOT MY DOG

Ellie has always wanted a puppy, and her parents have told her she can have one when she’s nine. Then her great-aunt has to move into an apartment, and asks Ellie’s family to take in her dog, Preston, instead of a puppy. Preston, a full-grown, ordinary mutt, is definitely not what Ellie had in mind, but through his friendliness, affection, and aid when she’s lost, he gradually wins her over. Rodowsky (The Turnabout Shop, 1998, etc.) keeps the pace quick and the tone light; Ellie, though stubborn, is never bratty, and Preston, while never anthropomorphized, is clearly aware of the loss of his owner. Small moments give the story its gentle glow, e.g., Preston looking out the window on his first night, Ellie scratching his ears until he falls asleep. (b&w illustrations, not seen) (Fiction. 7-11)