Boy's Best Friend

Reviewed by: Bernie Alie - Kennebunk Free Library, Kennebunk, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: May 10, 2016

Review

George and Lester are conducting science experiments testing whether their dogs can predict when they are headed home. The experiment is one advocated by Rupert Sheldrake, listed as co-author as well as a character in the novel.

Both boys obviously love their dogs, and the front and back cover with appealing dog faces will easily sell the book to readers. However, flaws exist in the text.

Despite both boys knowingly conducting the same experiment, they spend very little time together discussing it or their relationship with their dogs. Indeed, it is George's younger sister that makes the first connection with Lester. And she invites him over to help with the chore of gathering caterpillars rather then to go to the fair afterwards.

Extraneous ideas are introduced which don't add to the story, such as questions about homing pigeons. Despite being focused on a science experiment, the scientific process is minimized which limits the book's usefulness in the classroom. George's class report lists his discoveries having more to do with life rather than his specific experiment with his dog. For instance, he lists that he learned he could "win a bet with his brother." The inclusion of both boys' logbooks shows Lester as the more thoughtful, scientific observer, but readers will miss this if they skip the endnotes.

Although told from George's point of view, the story is more about Lester's adaptation to his move to Cape Cod. He has recently moved from Denver, and misses his old home deeply. His parents remain oblivious to his pain.

The target audience is boys, with a description of peeing in the opening pages. George notices that his last name includes the word "ass" which may offend some readers. Lester seems younger than 6th grade, playing hopscotch and remaining playful in the lunchroom. An additional purchase for most libraries.

Overall Book Score: fair