The Missing Dog Is Spotted

In the standalone prequel to The Spotted Dog Last Seen, an awkward friendship builds as sixth graders Loyola and Trevor complete a dog-walking community service project. Concern for an elderly man and his missing dog, and Trevor's mixed emotions about his family's frequent moves, propel the quiet story. Believable, interesting characters will attract both mystery fans and readers of the first book.

This involving mystery is a prequel to The Spotted Dog Last Seen, but it also stands on its own and focuses on different characters. As Trevor and Loyola volunteer with a dog-walking program for elderly dog owners, it's heartwarming to observe their growing affinity for the senior citizens and pets they meet. Jessica Scott Kerrin writes compassionately about the emotions of middle-school-age characters. For example, Trevor and Loyola are hesitant to be seen together for a superficial reason-a noticeable difference in their heights that makes them both uncomfortable. Their evolving relationship is touching, as the two discover their similar interests and forget about appearances. The mystery will keep readers guessing, with a number of possible solutions for them to ponder. Just when Trevor and Loyola think they have arrived at the answer, the missing dog's appearance has them questioning their assumptions.