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Synopsis
Bobby is so proud of his puppy Lucy. She's a terrific friend, and a great dog. So when a local store has a pet contest, he happily enters Lucy in it. But it turns out the pet that wins the contest may be featured on TV—with its owner! Bobby is shy. He doesn't like attention. But can he face the spotlight . . . for Lucy?
The third story of a boy and beagle's friendship is perfect for young dog lovers!
Children's Literature
The full-cover image of a perky-looking beagle with a large blue ribbon, accompanied by the title, led me to expect a pet story. This is, but it is also a new-school-year-fears story. In fact, Bobby's nervousness about the upcoming school year, his fear of public speaking, and the development of friendships are bigger themes than the dog Lucy's winning accomplishments. Bobby is anxious about the start of his first-grade year; his neighborhood friend Shawn, new to the school, is nervous, too. Their friend Candy, who Bobby met at a dog obedience class, is excited about it. Fortunately, all three have been assigned to the same class. That is not all they have in common. Bobby, Shawn and Candy have all decided to enter their pets in the Pets-o-Rama spokespet contest. Bobby is excited when Lucy wins the local store contest and advances to the regional competition—until he learns that, if she wins, he will be required to appear in TV commercials with her. But Bobby has more pressing concerns, too—namely, the oral report he is required to give about himself in school. Then, the kids start asking about Lucy and the contest, and Bobby is able to overcome his fear. Young children are likely to identify with Bobby's concerns. He is a likeable protagonist who realistically faces his fears. Reviewer: Heidi Hauser Green