Queen of Dogs (Joe Weatherstone, Walker)

Eleven-year-old Maddy feels like she doesn’t fit in at school or at home with her sporty family. She’d rather be hanging out with her dog, Gusto. When Gusto disappears, Maddy is distraught and resolves to rescue him. After another dog bites her, Maddy discovers she can now communicate with dogs and hear their concerns. There’s trouble brewing in town as more and more dogs go missing, and only Maddy can find out who is behind it all. With suspense, humour and a pack of darling dogs, Joe Weatherstone’s debut middle-grade novel is full of heart. Queen of Dogs is a story about loneliness, the power of animals, making new friends, and creating change in local communities. This is a riveting read for dog lovers and mystery readers. Fans of Kelli Anne Hawkins’ Copycat, Zana Fraillon’s The Way of Dog, and the classics Doctor Dolittle and Nancy Drew will be delighted by Weatherstone’s ability to craft a compelling mystery with a young girl’s unbreakable bond with her dog at the heart of the story. Maddy is an inspiring character whose unusual ability to communicate with dogs (and maybe more creatures!) drives the mystery forward while providing plenty of conflict about whether anyone should believe her. Her compassion and determination produce a compelling story for readers aged 9+, full of an assorted cast of furry friends and unexpected turns.

Books+Publishing reviewer: Clare Millar is a writer, editor and children's bookseller. Books+Publishing is Australia’s number-one source of pre-publication book reviews.

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Category: Reviews