Just Gus

Gr 3-7–In a tale just right for dog lovers, Gus is a Great Pyrennes, bred to protect, but has always longed for his own person. Gus tells his story though he relates all the conversations he overhears and doesn’t understand, helping readers to follow events that are beyond his doggy ken. Up until a bear arrived in the neighborhood, Gus was an outdoor dog, protecting sheep and chickens on a farm run by Esperanza and Cloe, her daughter, and their two indoor dog companions. Injured in his efforts to protect the farm, Gus becomes an inside dog and is befriended by their cousin Diego, who is severely shyness. Diego and his father return to their beach house bringing Gus where a persnickety neighbor tries to oust Gus from the neighborhood based on homeowner’s association rules. Gus’s good nature is tested as is Diego’s willingness to speak up for himself. Their bond becomes the basis for a solution that satisfies all and allows each person involved dignity and respect. Peaceful conflict resolution is showcased throughout in thoughtful non-didactic ways. This is short enough to possibly appeal to reluctant readers or to be read by advanced readers in second or third grade.