Published by Roaring Brook Press

Summary:  Moose the dog loves hellos and hates good-byes.  When his friend Zara goes to school, he finds ways to join her.  Each time he gets into school, it takes more and more people to get him to leave again, until finally, Zara’s parents and teacher, the principal, the librarian, and the lunch ladies are all in on the act.  One of Moose’s favorite parts of school is listening to books, and this gives Zara an idea.  She signs Moose up for therapy dog training, and he proves to be a natural.  With his new certification, he is welcome in school, listening to kids practice their reading each day.  An author’s note gives more information about therapy dogs and how they differ from service dogs; two websites are included for more information.  40 pages; grades K-2.

Pros:  Moose is pretty irresistible, and his antics will amuse young readers.  Zara is in a wheelchair, but this is scarcely touched on in the story and she is fully integrated into her classroom and a capable trainer for her dog.

Cons:  Moose’s behavioral turn-around seemed overly optimistic to me.