This extended photo-essay makes a low-key, but effective argument for adopting pets from rescue shelters. Its core is an actual rescue operation called Aunt Mary's Doghouse in Hope, New Jersey, which has saved hundreds of dogs (the Red Cross awarded Aunt Mary its Bravo for Bravery medal in 2007). Young readers will be drawn into the account by its focus on three abandoned puppies, a girl who wants a dog, and the full-color, up-close-and-personal photos that chronicle the girl's successful search for a pet. Writing in accessible language, Jackson mixes humor and realism in her account, which closes with information about how to use Petfinders.com to adopt from one of the 9,000 animals shelters operating in the U.S., and how children can preare themselves to become responsible pet owners. An entertaining and inspiring read.--Fletcher, Connie Copyright 2008 Booklist

The soulful, devoted eyes of a friendly brown puppy introduce the theme of animal rescue. Teenage author Jackson adopts Dixie from Aunt Mary's Doghouse and writes about the experience. Close-up photos of Dixie combined with easy-to-read (though very bland) text make this book accessible. (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted. All rights reserved.

K-Gr 5-In this photo-essay, the author, a high school student, chronicles her quest for a puppy, her family's decision to adopt one, and their trip to Aunt Mary's Doghouse-a nonprofit rescue agency-to find the right animal. The somewhat awkward text describes the excitement of meeting Dixie, the rough first night in her new home, going for walks, and cuddling on the sofa. The narrative points out that decisions about getting a pet should be carefully made, briefly mentions caretaking responsibilities, and highlights the plight of abandoned dogs. The book's strengths are the large, full-color, often full-page photos of the appealing pup and her new owner. The Web sites recommended for potential pet owners are regularly updated. Additional, where needed.-Colleen D. Bocka, Nathaniel Rochester Community School, Rochester, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.