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Children’s Books About Dogs

best childrens books about dogs

Best Children’s Books Featuring Dogs

Celebrate our playful and loyal furry friends with this list of the best children’s books about dogs.

From storytime classics like Hairy Maclary and accessible, shorter chapter books like The Dog That Saved the World (Cup), to longer reads exploring more complex themes like The Way of Dog, this list has something to offer readers of all ages and abilities. Dog-lovers will find plenty of new children’s books to choose from featuring canine characters.

Read on for our list of the best books about dogs and dog characters for primary school children. 

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Best children's picturebooks about dogs

Picturebook

Lovable canine Hairy Maclary sets off for a walk and encounters all kinds of friends along the way, whose names cleverly rhyme with their descriptions – from Bottomley Potts covered in spots to Schnitzel von Krumm with his very low tum.

This classic read-aloud book that shows how fun rhyming can be is a staple in Early Years classrooms and for good reason. With its bounce-along rhythm, delightful rhymes and charming illustrations of dogs, its memorable characters and catchy verses stay with you well after the pages close.

Picturebook

Both of these author-illustrators have separately created some joyous picture books for children and in this collaboration it sees the two create a humorous rhyming picture book with a canine theme.

The premise requires the reader to enjoy the notion that dogs really like dressing up in clothes and do this so they can ‘blend in’ with everyday human life. The idea of dogs in high heels “to make them look big” certainly can’t help but raise a smile! Dogs can sneak into all sorts of places when disguised, whether it’s a fancy café, a gym or a swimming pool. The rhyming is masterful and it would be great to see if dog-loving children can spot which dog must be dressed in the disguise based on the rhyme. It could, after all, only be a Shih-tzu that does jujitsu, and schnauzers that wear trousers!

I love the idea that dogs train their puppies to sit at tables and to walk on two legs to ensure they make the most of a disguise. Dogs are also shown in other types of disguises: dressed as a tree for example. Of course, this comes with its own disadvantage, shown rather amusingly, with a range of undisguised dogs relieving themselves against the disgruntled looking dog who is disguised as the tree! The illustrations deserve to be pored over with so many dogs in unusual outfits doing everyday jobs – I particularly like the dog disguised as a bouncer outside a club.

This is a fun book that will raise a smile on the faces of dog-lovers and non-dog-lovers alike!

Picturebook

Perfect for dog lovers, this book causes a smile with the ‘Tail of Happiness’- a wagging tail!

The main character, whose name we never find out, has a special bond with his dog ‘Sam’ – whose superpower is happiness. When the main character’s dad goes to work, he feels sad and the story is about the journey of following Sam to help him find happiness. They do all the usual fun games for a dog such a sniffing a shoe and chasing a ball. Once his dad comes home, he feels very happy but realises that he can now find happiness on his own, although it is even better to find it together.

The illustrations throughout the story stand out due to the white background. For children who prefer a less busy background, this story is ideal. The main character has a hearing aid, which is not mentioned during the story, supporting positive representations of characters with hearing loss.

This story is a celebration of man’s best friend as well as taking joy from all around us. Sam the dog is a great role model in finding happiness in both likely and unlikely places. This story is a wonderful addition to an Early Years/ KS1 classroom to read aloud or have in the book corner.

Picturebook
Written by the brilliant Julia Donaldson and stunningly illustrated by the award-winning Sara Ogilvie, The Hospital Dog is a big-hearted tale about a very special, very brave dog.Here is a dog, a Dalmatian called Dot, Is she quite ordinary? NO, SHE’S NOT!After their breakfast and a swim in the sea, Dot and her owner Rose jump on the bus to the hospital. Dot loves visiting the children of Wallaby Ward and they’re always pleased to see her too; from a crying baby to a bored teenager – a pat, a stroke and a cuddle with Dot cheers everyone up. But the work of the hospital dog doesn’t stop there and when one of her patients is in trouble, it’s up to Dot to save the day!Winner of the Indie Book Awards 2021 this fantastic rhyming story comes from the bestselling partnership behind The Detective Dog.
Picturebook
Can there really be 100 dogs doing 100 doggy things packed into the pages of this picture book? Follow the bouncy rhyme as it weaves its way through an array of hilarious hounds (from petted pugs to silly sausage dogs) and find out . . .This silly celebration of dogs is bursting with funny details to spot and crazy, characterful dogs to fall in love with - a bark-aloud book to return time and again.

Picturebook

This is a popular picture book with a message about the right to follow individual choices even when it means opting to be different from others. Biff is not like ordinary dogs. Instead of chasing sticks and scratching his fleas, Biff likes moonlight, music and walking on tiptoes. Biff does not see himself as a dog but as a ballerina. Can he follow his dreams despite the way others see him? Dogs Don’t Do Ballet is an important story about allowing ourselves and others the freedom to express individual liberty.

Picturebook
Can one dog help a young princess learn how to become a beloved queen? The true and touching story of Queen Elizabeth II and her first corgi, Susan. As a young girl, Elizabeth's life changed for ever when her Papa was crowned King George VI and the family moved into Buckingham Palace. But one thing has never changed: she always has her corgis at her side. This is the story of her beloved first corgi, Susan, who accompanied Princess Elizabeth everywhere she went - even secretly riding in her glass carriage on her wedding day to Prince Philip! Susan was there for Elizabeth when her Papa died and she was crowned Queen Elizabeth II, and remained at her side as a faithful companion in her early years as a Queen and later as a mother. This picture book provides a fascinating window into the life of Queen Elizabeth II from princess to beloved Queen, told through her enduring love of corgis.
Picturebook
Join the smelliest dog you'll ever meet on his quest to find his Special Smell in this brilliantly funny picture book adventure from the award-winning Catherine Rayner.Louie the dog has just had a bath - and he is NOT happy about it. He smells all wrong. Determined to get his Special Smell back, he goes on a hunt for it and meets lots of smelly things along the way - a fox, some interesting dustbins and a marvellously muddy puddle to roll in. Will he ever get his smell back? And, more importantly, will he be able to keep it this time . . . ?Smelly Louie is a wonderfully funny and very messy story from the CILIP Kate Greenaway Medal-winning Catherine Rayner, illustrator of The Go-Away Bird by Julia Donaldson. Full of Catherine's trademark humour and richy-textured artwork, this funny canine tale will be a sure-fire hit with children and adults alike.

Short, illustrated chapter books about dogs (ages 4-7)

Chapter book

For those just past the Early Readers stage, Jasper: Space Dog is a fun and easy to read first chapter book. The book is written in the form of letters from Jasper (and his human owner, Charlie) to Dr Isabella Starr, Rocket Scientist. The letters from Charlie and Jasper are silly and light; they ask questions such as ‘Is the moon made of cheese?’, ‘Do astronauts eat hotdogs?’, and ‘Did the astronauts see a man in the moon?’.

Dr Starr’s replies are fun too, but also provide interesting facts. Did you know that the landing module Eagle was originally going to be called Haystack? ‘Houston, the Haystack has landed’ doesn’t have quite the same ring! Or that the astronauts couldn’t afford life insurance, so they each signed hundreds of photos to be sold if they didn’t make it back to raise money for their families. Jasper: Space Dog provides young readers with all of these answers and more.

Graphic novel

I love this series and jumped at the chance to get hold of River Rescue for my younger primary pupils! Paige Braddock has really hit the sweet spot for younger readers new to graphic novels. These are just lovely, simple stories of a wise grown-up dog (Crackers), a typical grumpy heart-of-gold cat (Butter) and an irrepressible new puppy (Peanut). They’re very straightforward stories which don’t rely on puns or clever vocabulary to be funny; the humour is all in the characters, making them ideal for children who have maybe struggled but are making progress into independent, confident readers. When you hear “I can’t put it down!” from these readers, you know you’re on to something a bit special.

River Rescue tells the story of a camper van trip into the woods – super-exciting for little Peanut, perhaps not quite so much for home-loving Crackers. All is comfortable until Butter’s feline pride gets the better of him, mysteriously disappearing off for an adventure with Peanut, and the two end up needing calm, steady Crackers (and a helpful beaver!) to pull them out of the river. The illustrations are bright, clean and uncluttered, with larger typeface than usual in the speech bubbles. There’s a short bonus story and a “how to draw the characters” section at the back in the same vein as Dogman and Bunny vs Monkey.

Peanut, Butter and Crackers are great stories in their own right, but they could serve as an introduction to graphic novels and is real fun for Year 1 and Year 2.

Chapter book Dyslexia-friendly
Ruby's dad has arrived home with a wonderful surprise - Coco the sausage dog puppy! And when the family go on holiday to the seaside, of course Coco will be coming too. The beach is a thrilling place for a dog - so many sights, smells and holes to dig! Ruby and Coco can't wait to spend the day splashing in the waves and playing in the sand. But disaster strikes when Coco disappears. Suddenly she's lost and all alone on the huge, busy beach ... Will she ever find her way back to Ruby?Worldwide bestseller Holly Webb makes her Barrington Stoke debut with a truly adorable sausage-dog tale!
Chapter book Dyslexia-friendly
A beautiful, heartwarming story set in Africa about a young boy and his yearning for a pet dog. From internationally bestselling author Alexander McCall Smith. Timo and his mother do not have much money - in fact, they have almost none. But that does not matter too much, because Timo has his mother and she has him. They have their little house. They have friends and neighbours. They have the world about them. All of that can be enough for happiness. There is one more thing, though, that Timo would like to have ...A dog! High quality cream paper and a special easy-to-read font ensure a smooth read for all.

Chapter books about dogs for younger readers (age 6-9)

Chapter book

Jen Carney writes with love and humour. A brilliantly funny, family-friendly story perfect for fans of dogs, pranks and adventures. Cleverly illustrated with comic strips and cartoons this is both easily accessible and inclusive, with representation of families of different shapes and sizes.

Ferris Foster’s neighbour Destiny boasts about videos of her dog going viral. So in retaliation, Ferris claims that his dog Aldo can become an even bigger internet star. However, despite being his best friend, Aldo is not big or clever or talented. He is a dog! So when Aldo is filmed doing what looks like an amazing trick Ferris believes he is onto a winner. . . will Aldo give Ferris the break he needs and live up to his comic book alter-ego? Or will this be FAILURE with a capital F? Who doesn’t want to be famous these days?

This is a funny, feel-good, laugh-out-loud adventure to prove that family and friends are everything.

Chapter book
A warm, uplifting story for young readers about a boy and his dog and the power of music to heal; a first-time collaboration from two Irish Children’s Laureates.Patrick has been desperate for a dog of his own for a long as he can remember – and this summer, with his father away, he longs for a buddy more than ever.In his short doggy life, Oz has suffered at the hands of BAD PEOPLE. Somewhere out there, he believes, is an AWESOME BOY – his BOY. Maybe when they find each other he will learn to BARK again...
Chapter book Dyslexia-friendly

The Dog That Saved the World (Cup) is a thoroughly enjoyable story of a dog and his family. Inspired by events of 1966, Phil Earle brings the legend of the Jules Rimet trophy theft up to date by placing his tale in a contemporary setting with contemporary problems. Being narrated by Pickles the dog, difficult – but real – issues of unemployment, single-parenting, poverty and homelessness are explored with an innocent honesty that makes them accessible and appropriate for younger readers. Despite the underlying struggles and heartaches, this is not a story of sadness, but it is a quick, positive read that is fun and uplifting.

After the ending of the story, there is an author’s note explaining the real-life inspiration behind the book. Fara Williams, England’s most capped women’s footballer, has shown that dreams can come true as she herself was homeless but never without hope because she had football in her life. Elsie is a reflection of Fara – full of hope, determination and undefeated by life’s challenges.

Printed on a dyslexia-friendly font on cream paper, the story is delightfully illustrated by Elisa Paganelli. The drawings are predominantly joyful. showing happy faces and the bond between a family who have lots of love even when they have little else.

 

A fun, super-readable story of football with much, much more besides.

Chapter book
A little girl who desperately wants a dog introduces an imaginary Great Dane called Henry into her home. Her wish comes true when she is allowed a real Henry. Was neighbour Mrs Garrow, with her cackling laugh and black cat, responsible for her wish coming true?From the number one author for animal magic comes a wonderful new edition of this much loved classic.
Chapter book
The third in a fantastic series of animal stories for younger readers by Waterstones Children's Book Prize-shortlisted author Helen Peters, with beautiful black-and-white illustrations by Ellie Snowdon.A sick puppy abandoned on Jasmine's farm urgently needs her help to survive. And though he adores her, Jasmine doesn't know if Sky will ever trust people again. But it's not until she gets into terrible danger that she finds out...Brilliant storytelling that will make you laugh and cry, this is Dick King-Smith for a new generation. Perfect for readers aged seven and up.Check out Jasmine's other adventures: A Piglet Called Truffle, A Duckling Called Button, A Kitten Called Holly and many more!

Chapter book
The Hundred-Mile-an-Hour Dog by Jeremy Strong has become a children's classic! From The Hundred-Mile-an-Hour Dog to karate princesses and hot cross bottoms, there's a Jeremy Strong story to suit every child's sense of humour. Jeremy's readers range from 7 to teen, perfect for fans of Roald Dahl and Morris Gleitzman. Streaker is a mixed-up kind of dog...with quite a bit of Ferrari and a large chunk of whirlwind. Streaker is no ordinary dog. She's a rocket on four legs with a woof attached, and Trevor has got until the end of the holidays to train her. If he fails, he'll lose his bet with horrible Charlie Smugg, and something very, very yucky involving frogspawn will happen...
Chapter book
Aria is excited to celebrate her puppy’s first Christmas – they’ll make snowmen and eat lots of food, and she’s even bought him a special present with her pocket money! But when Aria’s family come to stay, Jackson becomes over-excited and scares Aria’s younger cousin.On Christmas morning things only seem to get worse. Jackson is shut out of the living room while gifts are being opened, Aria can’t find his present and then the puppy eats Grandma’s fluffy winter boots! With her parents refusing to take her side, will Aria and Jackson get their perfect Christmas after all? Celebrate the wintry wonder of the 50th story in best-selling author Holly Webb’s Animal Stories series. Perfect for fans of ZOE’S RESCUE ZOO, MAGIC ANIMAL FRIENDS and Michael Morpurgo!
Chapter book
Meet Lizzie and Lucky: a sparky young detective and her loyal Dalmatian sidekick!The first title in a brand new illustrated series from beloved animal author Megan Rix.Lizzie is desperate for a dog. In order to convince her parents to get one, she has to come up with 101 reasons why she needs one. Lizzie is a master at making lists, so thinking of 101 reasons is going to be easy! Especially as she is deaf and could train one to be her hearing dog. But as Lizzie begins compiling her list, she witnesses an adorable puppy being snatched away and put into a van by a mysterious-looking man. Can Lizzie solve the case - and maybe find herself a loyal friend at the same time...?
Chapter book
A tale of kindness triumphing over cruelty, of resilience, friendship and the value of looking forward rather than behind you – from a master storyteller.When Patrick saves a greyhound puppy from drowning in the canal, he gives his beloved new pet the only name that feels right: Best Mate.But despite Patrick’s promise to look after Best Mate forever, it isn't long before the greyhound is thrust into a new life and threatened with a fate he will have to fight to escape. In the face of constant danger, Best Mate finds a way to survive. The real challenge will be finding a home . . .

Chapter books about dogs for older readers (ages 9-12)

Chapter book
Funny and poignant, this 2001 Newbery Honor novel captures life in a quirky Southern town as Opal and her mangy dog, Winn-Dixie, strike up friendships among the locals.One summer’s day, ten-year-old India Opal Buloni goes down to the local supermarket for some groceries – and comes home with a dog. But Winn-Dixie is no ordinary dog. It’s because of Winn-Dixie that Opal begins to make friends. And it’s because of Winn-Dixie that she finally dares to ask her father about her mother, who left when Opal was three. In fact, as Opal admits, just about everything that happens that summer is because of Winn-Dixie.
Chapter book

A gripping mountain-based adventure with strong female role models. Clova has grown up with the mountains and moors as her playground, with her Mum and Dad’s love of the outdoors shared passionately since the day she was born. When her Mum’s life is lost during a search and rescue mission, Clova loses not just her Mum, but her Dad, her best friend and the freedom to run wild that, to her, is the very essence of life itself. By chance she meets Taffy, an abandoned collie, and a bond develops between them that might just save more than one life, including their own.

This is a story filled with loss and heartbreak, hope and fear, and a delicate web of characters, each experiencing and dealing with loss in their own way.  I found myself wanting to pack a rucksack and hiking boots and head straight off to the highlands of Scotland, then became mindful of the dangers that might arise if I did just that. Masterful and sweet, each character is introduced, sometimes fleetingly, only to return at a poignant point later as their paths cross again and the elaborate tapestry that Forrest sews comes together.

 

Chapter book

This is a positive and uplifting book that would appeal across Key Stage Two year groups. This empathy-boosting story explores themes of change, friendship, animals and neurodiversity.

11-year-old Alex is autistic and having difficulty navigating school and friendships, especially with the transition to secondary school on the horizon. His relationship with his dog, Kevin, is at the heart of the story and their ambitions ultimately lead to important lessons about friendship.

Dog-themed books are hugely popular with children.  As well as the bond between children and pets, the story covers some of the anxieties and concerns associated with the transition to secondary school and the particular challenges of change for autistic individuals. It would also be suitable for much younger, capable readers and will be enjoyed by a wide range of readers, making it a great choice for a school library.

Chapter book
What That in Dog Years is a story with many themes and emotions. It’s a story of life, love, friendship, happiness and grief.
 
George has a lot going on in his life – coping with his parents’ separation, growing apart from his best friend and being bullied. Through it all, he’s had his greatest friend and canine companion Gizmo by his side. Unfortunately, Gizmo is getting old and George must prepare himself for the time when Gizmo won’t be there any longer. George creates a Bucket List for Gizmo, so he can give his dog the best life possible before it’s time to say goodbye.
As he sets about helping Gizmo tick off his list, George still has to deal with all of his other problems. Through the journey, George discovers an inner strength he never knew he had and a new sense of self-worth.
 
This story is told from two points of view; George and Gizmo. While there is inevitably an heart-wrenching climax when it’s time for Gizmo to go, this is also a tale of growth and courage for George. A truly unforgettable story.
Chapter book
All Hal had ever wanted was a dog. But a dog would damage the carpets in Hal's house, and so his parents refused to let him have one.Then they discover Easy Pets, a convenient dog-rental agency.Terrier Fleck arrives on Hal's birthday, but when he discovers that his dog must be returned, he runs away.An irresistible adventure from a truly great and much-loved children's author that every dog-loving child will adore.Perfect for fans of 101 DALMATIANS.With lovely line drawings on each chapter head

Chapter book

A fantastic dog-themed book to satisfy emotionally mature readers in year 6.

A Street Dog Named Pup is a gripping adventure story seen through the eyes of Pup, a dog who is cruelly abandoned by an adult in his family. The story follows Pup as he tries to find his “Boy” again. There are highs and lows, good spells and deeply, deeply unhappy spells in the dog’s life as he tries to be reunited with the boy he loves.

I’ve honestly not read a book like this before. The powerful imagery and raw emotion that you feel reading this are immense. The dogs that Pup meets as he tries to survive on the streets each come with their own stories, which have been beautifully thought out and with which we humans can identify. There is a story about, for example, a small dog who is so old she barely comes out of the handbag she was abandoned in – who also has a threadbare collar with one last jewel hanging on by a thread. Another of Pup’s companions is a French bulldog who is desperate for a snout as he can barely breathe through his flat nose. Another is a hound that has been scarred, physically and mentally, by the fox hunts he worked on before being abandoned.

There are very human qualities to the dogs and the story is so well written that you end up caring what happens to each and every one of them. Will Pup reach his destination and be happy? Will he end up being caught by The Snatchers and go to Dogsdoom, perhaps even end up going through the Door of No Return?

Whatever happens, you will be sure to be caught up in the emotional rollercoaster of his journey. 

Chapter book
A boy, a dog, and a magical body-swap adventure! Turn the page, share the adventure in the bestselling magical mystery from master storyteller Ben Miller.George has always wondered what it's like to be a dog. One night, a magical mix-up with an enchanted fountain means he swaps places with Midnight, a huge and loveable hound! Becoming a dog is an amazing adventure, until George uncovers a plan that could threaten Midnight's home. Can the two friends save the day before the clock strikes twelve and leaves them stuck in each other's bodies forever?A magical race-against-time for a boy and his dog best friend – discover the funny and heartwarming classic storytelling from bestselling author and beloved actor, Ben Miller.
Chapter book Dyslexia-friendly

Thinking and talking about war with children is difficult. Is war exciting? Are all soldiers brave? Is playing war games violent? When is killing other people justified?

These are the sorts of questions raised by Jack, the eleven year old boy at the centre of Tom Palmer’s new story, D-Day Dog. Jack’s dad is a reserve soldier about to be called up to Afghanistan and Jack couldn’t be more proud. At school, the class is preparing for a trip to Normandy to visit the site of the D-Day landings and Jack is already really excited.

But as Jack learns more about war, through learning about the life of his new Syrian classmate Kasandra and reading about WW2 Private Emile Corteil and his dog Glen, he begins to question everything he thought he knew about war.

This is such an important book to read to all children who are learning about war and the impact it has on the lives of the people and animals involved. Through the voice of Jack, Tom Palmer sensitively yet unflinchingly discusses the consequences and emotions involved in warfare. Brilliantly researched, the book is full of fascinating facts which are woven together to create a truly moving and gripping read.

Dyslexia-friendly in a clear, uncluttered font, this is a must-read for all 9-12-year-olds, not just in this year on the commemoration of the D-Day landings. Reading aloud to a whole class would allow the children to discuss the plot and the questions as they are unveiled through the story. It would also work well as a read-alone book or one to read at bedtime. But, do leave time for conversations afterwards. The ideas and issues contained within this simple and compelling story are too important to gloss over.

Chapter book

Cosmo’s best friend is Max and they are inseparable. When Max feels something, Cosmo feels it too. Max sees his family falling apart and fears they may get separated as a result, so together Max and Cosmo hatch a plan to show everyone they need to be together. The only problem is the plan involves them winning a dance competition and Cosmo has never danced. Oh, and also that Cosmo is a dog.

Sensitively written from the unusual perspective of a dog, Sorosiak charts the journey one family takes as their once unified family falls apart, but shows that even when love changes it can still endure.

Perfect for dog lovers, this appealing story is full of heart. Interspersed with flashbacks and observations, Sorosiak paints a picture of Cosmo’s story – how he came to be with the family, his weaknesses and strengths but above all his unquestionable love and devotion to one little boy. The story may help those whose own families are going through a break up or just provide an interesting perspective to start discussions on how other characters in the book may be feeling at different points in the story.

Perhaps most suited to mature readers in upper KS2 or lower KS3, this book offers great scope for discussions on inference, perspective and prediction. All that said, this book will win your heart and have you up reading past your bedtime as you fall in love with Cosmo and root for him to succeed. If you want to convince someone to get a dog, this might just be the book to do it.

Chapter book

Digger And Me is a touching story about a boy called James, who absolutely adores his dog Digger. His beloved furry friend has become even more important to him as his parents have separated, and James finds himself living between two homes where his parents both have new partners. As well as that, his last year in primary school has been off to a shaky start with a succession of different supply teachers.

The easy-going golden retriever has become the one constant in James’ life. He is the one James can depend on, tell all his worries to and the one that will be there for him no matter what. Until suddenly everything changes when James discovers a lump on Digger’s leg.

With his world full of uncertainty, Mr Froggett, the latest new teacher, shows James how to channel his emotions through poetry. After some initial scepticism, James finds his voice; able to share his thoughts and feelings that he finds too hard to share otherwise. Poetry soon becomes a source of comfort as he journeys through this challenging time in his life.

This is a book takes you on an emotional rollercoaster!

Being written from James’ point of view, you can’t help but feel the depths of emotions the character goes through as if you were there with him. It is a relatable story that I imagine will resonate with many children, as well as adults. Family separation is sadly quite common, yet this does not make it any less of a confusing and turbulent time for any child. It is often hard for children to find a way to deal with these types of situations, and to find a channel to express their feelings. This book takes a considerate and thoughtful approach to these sensitive issues; punctuated with poetry that draws attention to ways we can find to help us cope in times of need.


Chapter book

Zana Fraillon is a brilliant writer, and this story is no exception. Because it’s written in verse, the pages turn quickly, making it great for less confident readers who still want a story with emotional depth.

This is an emotional read that deals with animal cruelty and neglect. The main character is a dog who starts life in a puppy farm and experiences mistreatment at the hands of humans, as well as the loss of loved ones.

It captures the ‘voice’ of a dog perfectly. It doesn’t shy away from the harder parts of a dog’s life, but it ends on a note of hope. A really powerful addition to any class library.

Chapter book
Meet the leader of the Suffragettes, Emmeline Pankhurst, and a particularly plucky pup, during a momentous time in history!Alfie can't believe his luck when he is allowed to keep a tiny puppy he finds abandoned on the street. Rascal is cute as a button and has lots of attitude, and Emmeline Pankhurst is thrilled that her ward Alfie has a new friend. Alfie and Rascal deliver messages between the Suffragettes as they organise their 'Votes for Women' campaign. But it's sometimes dangerous work, and it's not long before Alfie and Rascal find out the true cost of the fight.Full of adventure, fascinating history and lovely animals, this is the perfect read for young fans of Dick King-Smith and Michael Morpurgo.
Chapter book

Any child who has loved Phil Earle’s war stories or Sheila Burnford’s ‘The Incredible Journey’ will love ‘I am Rebel’.

Ross Montgomery tells the story of Tom, a restless and idealistic farm boy, who makes the dangerous decision to join a civil rebellion against an oppressive and heartless king, and Rebel, his brave and faithful dog. Rebel, determined to track Tom down, sets out on a journey to find him and makes friends along the way. What begins as one dog’s search for his boy turns into an epic animal odyssey.

Montgomery draws in all kinds of issues to his narrative; the desire of a young boy to rebel and follow the promise of a dream in defiance of his parents, his misguided trust in an unknown adult, and, more positively, the power of love and faithfulness in friendships and family.

It is often said of new releases that they read like classics – but this one truly does. Ross Montgomery’s vivid and emotive storytelling paired with simple language make it a must for school libraries. It’s timeless, touching, and thrilling throughout.

Favourite children's non-fiction books about dogs

Non-fiction Picturebook
Written by bestselling children's author (and accidental American Dingo-owner) Carlie Sorosiak, this gorgeous treasury of fascinating facts and amazing real-life stories is the perfect gift for dog lovers.Throughout human history dogs have been by our side, paw prints following our footprints wherever we roamed. In this collection of fascinating facts and amazing real-life stories, discover everything you ever wanted to know about our very best friends.From tracing the evolutionary history of dogs to explaining the science of doggy senses, find out how pups communicate, whether they understand us, and if they really love us back!Meet the hounds of ancient history, worshipped as gods, and painted in works of art from the stone age to the modern day, and explore the stories of real-life doggy heroes, dogs with jobs, and how dogs help humans every day.A gorgeously illustrated gift book for every dog lover to treasure.

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