Dog Friday

From School Library Journal Grade 4-6?Since being attacked by a dog, Robin, 10, is afraid of them, but finding an abandoned mutt on the beach helps him overcome his fear. He wants to keep Friday but his mother, who runs a less-than-successful bed-and-breakfast business, insists that they turn him over to the RSPCA for seven days in case his owners call to claim him. In the meantime, Robin gets to know the new next-door neighbors?a cheerful, wildly nutty bunch of kids, one of whom is emotionally disturbed?and must deal with Dan, a bully. When Robin sees a notice about a lost dog that fits Friday's description, he is overcome with guilt and decides to notify the animal's rightful owners. Fortunately, it is a case of mistaken identity, and in the end Robin and his canine pal are able to stay together. This is a poignant novel about honesty and the complexities of friendship. All the characters are well drawn and Robin's sensitive nature will appeal to readers. The British coast setting and language may be difficult for some readers to identify with; nevertheless, the story is entertaining, funny, and thoughtful, and the characters have depth.?Ann M. Burlingame, North Regional Library, Raleigh, NCCopyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc. From