National Book Award winner Pete Hautman explores a friendship like no otherโand the universal truth that dogs make life better, especially for underdogs.
Evan doesnโt seem to fit in at school or at home. He goes out of his way to avoid attention. He sits at the back of the bus, keeps his head down in class, and keeps to himself. But when a burr-covered border collieโa survivor with a gut instinct about the Boyโstarts following him around and joining him on his runs, Evanโs simple duck-and-dodge existence becomes a lot more complicated . . . a lot more like life. Evolving from wary companions to steadfast friends, Evan and the dog run fast and far together, thwart an abusive dog breeder and the school bully, and find the courage to stand up for themselves and to open up to those who matter most. Narrated in alternating viewpoints, this relatable contemporary novel with classic coming-of-age themes has all the hope, pathos, and emotional complexity that mark Pete Hautmanโs books for middle-grade readersโand is a deeply satisfying read for animal lovers.