The Misadventures of the Magician's Dog

Gr 4–6—Because he is afraid of dogs, Peter is shocked when he hears himself asking for one for his 12th birthday. Later, after bringing one home from a shelter, he is stunned to learn that his new pet actually talks. The Dog tells Peter that he needs help in releasing his previous owner, a magician, from a terrible spell. The Dog will, in return, teach Peter magic, which could help bring his father home from deployment in the Middle East. As Peter's practice of magic improves and deepens, he realizes that he is a better wizard when he is angry, and he has to confront his feelings about his father's absence. Peter's siblings also become involved with the attempts to free the magician. Peter's relationships are realistic. The resolution to the psychological pain of missing his father rings true and the magical plot presents adventure and an exciting climax. Fantasy fans will enjoy this story, and the fast-moving plot will engage reluctant readers.—Tina Martin, Arlington Heights Memorial Library, IL