Author(s): Marion Dane Bauer

Middle Fiction 8-12-year-olds

A novel in verse starring a boy, a lost dog, and a lonely old man, from Newbery Honoree Marion Dane Bauer. Mark is a boy who "needs" a dog. But he can't get his mom on board with his plan. Buddy is a dog who needs a boy. Buddy has an owner already, but not one who understands what a dog "really "needs. Mr. LaRue is a neighbor who needs a community. He's alone all the time in his huge old house--and "everyone" needs more than that. Over the course of a summer thunderstorm and one chaotic town council meeting, these three characters cross paths and come together in a timeless tale ripe with emotions. They'll realize they all need the same things: love, understanding, and a sense of belonging--plus a place to play a game of fetch!