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The Good Dog
The Good Dog by Avi.jpg
First edition
Author Avi (pseudonym)
Country USA
Language English
Genre Children's novel
Publisher Atheneum Books
Publication date
2001
Media type Print
Pages 243
ISBN 978-0-689-83824-8
OCLC 45505842
LC Class PZ10.3.A965 Go 2001

The Good Dog is an exciting children's book written by Avi, a famous author who won the Newbery Medal. It was first published in 2001. This story is perfect for readers aged 8 to 12. Many people say it feels like a movie, similar to The Incredible Journey or Beethoven.

What's the Story About?

The story takes place in a snowy town called Steamboat Springs, Colorado. You get to see everything from a dog's point of view! In this book, all the animals can talk to each other in English.

The main character is a brave Malamute named McKinley. He loves and protects his "human pup," Jack.

One day, McKinley helps a runaway greyhound named Duchess. Soon after, he meets Lupin, a wolf who is trying to find new dogs for her shrinking wolf pack. McKinley faces many challenges. He has to deal with Jack wanting to join the wolf pack. He also needs to protect Lupin from hunters, including Duchess's mean owner, Pycraft. On top of that, he has to figure out how to handle Redburn, a bossy Irish Setter who wants to be the top dog.

By the end of the book, McKinley has grown a lot. He overcomes many problems, sometimes with help from his best friend, Aspen. Aspen is a friendly Retriever who lives next door. McKinley changes from a happy-go-lucky pet into a true leader.

Awards and Recognition

The Good Dog has won several awards and been recognized as a great book:

  • The California Young Reader Medal in 2006
  • The Children's Crown Award in 2004
  • Named one of the best books of 2001 by Rocky Mountain News
  • Nominated for the Children's Choice Award in Pennsylvania in 2003
  • Nominated for the Children's Choice Award in Minnesota in 2006
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