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Runt #2
Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping
The sequel to Runt, the phenomenal bestseller and family favourite, by award-winning author Craig Silvey.
Six weeks have passed since Annie Shearer and Runt competed valiantly at the Krumpets Dog Show.
The town of Upson Downs is rejuvenated. The grass is green. The rivers are flowing. And a Tournament of Champions has just been announced, with the world's best canine talent invited to showcase their skills in the Grand Ballroom of the abandoned Robert-Barren estate.
But as preparations for the event get underway, Runt mysteriously goes missing, and a trail of suspicious clues surround his doghouse. Annie's worst fears are confirmed when she discovers a ransom note with a peculiar she must win it all to see her friend again.
It's up to Annie and her brother Max – now an intrepid investigative reporter with the Upson Downs Speculator – to rescue Runt before it's too late.
Endlessly charming, deeply funny and bursting with heart, Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping is an engrossing mystery filled with twists and surprises. A beautiful, tender, and moving sequel to the bestselling, multi-award-winning classic, Runt.
Six weeks have passed since Annie Shearer and Runt competed valiantly at the Krumpets Dog Show.
The town of Upson Downs is rejuvenated. The grass is green. The rivers are flowing. And a Tournament of Champions has just been announced, with the world's best canine talent invited to showcase their skills in the Grand Ballroom of the abandoned Robert-Barren estate.
But as preparations for the event get underway, Runt mysteriously goes missing, and a trail of suspicious clues surround his doghouse. Annie's worst fears are confirmed when she discovers a ransom note with a peculiar she must win it all to see her friend again.
It's up to Annie and her brother Max – now an intrepid investigative reporter with the Upson Downs Speculator – to rescue Runt before it's too late.
Endlessly charming, deeply funny and bursting with heart, Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping is an engrossing mystery filled with twists and surprises. A beautiful, tender, and moving sequel to the bestselling, multi-award-winning classic, Runt.
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Published October 1, 2025
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About the author
Craig Silvey
13 books1,350 followersCraig Silvey is an author and screenwriter from Fremantle, Western Australia.
His critically acclaimed debut novel, Rhubarb, was published in 2004. His bestselling second novel, Jasper Jones, was released in 2009 and is considered a modern Australian classic. Published in over a dozen territories, Jasper Jones has won plaudits in three continents, including an International Dublin Literary Award shortlisting, a Michael J. Printz Award Honor, and a Miles Franklin Literary Award shortlisting. Jasper Jones was the Australian Book Industry Awards Book of the Year for 2010.
His third novel, Honeybee, published in 2020, was an award-winning bestseller. Honeybee was the 2020 Dymocks Book Of The Year, won the Indie Book Award for Best Fiction, and was shortlisted for both the Literary Fiction Book of the Year at the 2021 ABIA Awards and the Adult Fiction Book of the Year at the ABA Booksellers’ Choice Awards. In 2022 and 2023, Honeybee was voted Number 1 in the Better Reading Top 100.
Released in 2022, Runt was his first novel for Younger Readers. Dubbed an 'instant classic', Runt won a raft of awards, including the Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Award, the Australian Book Industry Awards Book of the Year for Younger Children, the Indie Book Awards Book of the Year, Children's Book of the Year at the BookPeople Book of the Year Awards and the 2022 Dymocks Book of the Year for Younger Readers.
Its sequel, 'Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping', will be released September 30th, 2025.
His critically acclaimed debut novel, Rhubarb, was published in 2004. His bestselling second novel, Jasper Jones, was released in 2009 and is considered a modern Australian classic. Published in over a dozen territories, Jasper Jones has won plaudits in three continents, including an International Dublin Literary Award shortlisting, a Michael J. Printz Award Honor, and a Miles Franklin Literary Award shortlisting. Jasper Jones was the Australian Book Industry Awards Book of the Year for 2010.
His third novel, Honeybee, published in 2020, was an award-winning bestseller. Honeybee was the 2020 Dymocks Book Of The Year, won the Indie Book Award for Best Fiction, and was shortlisted for both the Literary Fiction Book of the Year at the 2021 ABIA Awards and the Adult Fiction Book of the Year at the ABA Booksellers’ Choice Awards. In 2022 and 2023, Honeybee was voted Number 1 in the Better Reading Top 100.
Released in 2022, Runt was his first novel for Younger Readers. Dubbed an 'instant classic', Runt won a raft of awards, including the Children’s Book Council of Australia Book of the Year Award, the Australian Book Industry Awards Book of the Year for Younger Children, the Indie Book Awards Book of the Year, Children's Book of the Year at the BookPeople Book of the Year Awards and the 2022 Dymocks Book of the Year for Younger Readers.
Its sequel, 'Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping', will be released September 30th, 2025.
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October 13, 2025
Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping by Craig Silvey
Synopsis /
Six weeks have passed since Annie Shearer and Runt competed valiantly at the Krumpets Dog Show.
The town of Upson Downs is rejuvenated. The grass is green. The rivers are flowing. And a Tournament of Champions has just been announced, with the world's best canine talent invited to showcase their skills in the Grand Ballroom of the abandoned Robert-Barren estate.
But as preparations for the event get underway, Runt mysteriously goes missing, and a trail of suspicious clues surround his doghouse. Annie's worst fears are confirmed when she discovers a ransom note with a peculiar she must win it all to see her friend again.
It's up to Annie and her brother Max – now an intrepid investigative reporter with the Upson Downs Speculator – to rescue Runt before it's too late.
My Thoughts /
‘Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping might just be the most enjoyable, rewarding book I have ever written', said Craig Silvey, ‘I can promise that it will make you laugh and seize your heart, and it will be just as enriching and uplifting as you might expect from a trip to Upson Downs.'
Can confirm this to be the case - 💯%.
It was back in 2023, when author Craig Silvey, first introduced the reader to an agile, fast and cunning little stray dog called Runt. Although only small, Runt is spry, agile and athletic due to years of living on the streets. Runt can dart like a rabbit and climb like a monkey. The little dog is cunning, cheeky and clever. He is also fiercely loyal to his owner, Annie Shearer, and Annie Shearer is fiercely loyal to Runt.
In this instalment, Runt disappears and at the same time, a note appears on the Upson Downs Official town noticeboard which says Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.
Has someone taken Runt? It's a diabolical dognapping! Annie Shearer is lost, there is a huge Runt-shaped hole in her world. But there are clues. His doghouse is empty; there is a fish lying in the dirt; and a small, dirty rag nearby. Annie's brother Max is keen to investigate, even joining a newspaper office team in town. A new girl in town named Verity makes this all the more exciting, as she is the newspaper’s photographer. Between Max and Verity they discover more about Runt and his past before Upson Downs, but not who his kidnapper might be.
Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping has been aimed at a younger reading audience – ages 8-12. I grew up reading The Hardy Boys series and Nancy Drew books. This year’s generation of 8-12s will grow up reading wonderful titles like Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping, and that makes me very happy. You won’t have any trouble picking out adjectives to use to describe this book - heart-warming, affecting, heartening, rewarding, inspiring, elevating, uplifting, tender, moving, poignant, loving and the list just keeps going.
The writing is simple but effective and is sure to be a hit with both children and adults alike. Runt is full of whimsical, eccentric and larger than life characters with some added oddities and idiosyncrasies of rural Australia. Silvey has written his characters with a very Australian outback spirit. As tough as they come but with hearts as big as a bull elephant. Hope is the definite overarching feeling that brings this story to life.
This is an easy 5 stars from me. 🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕
Synopsis /
Six weeks have passed since Annie Shearer and Runt competed valiantly at the Krumpets Dog Show.
The town of Upson Downs is rejuvenated. The grass is green. The rivers are flowing. And a Tournament of Champions has just been announced, with the world's best canine talent invited to showcase their skills in the Grand Ballroom of the abandoned Robert-Barren estate.
But as preparations for the event get underway, Runt mysteriously goes missing, and a trail of suspicious clues surround his doghouse. Annie's worst fears are confirmed when she discovers a ransom note with a peculiar she must win it all to see her friend again.
It's up to Annie and her brother Max – now an intrepid investigative reporter with the Upson Downs Speculator – to rescue Runt before it's too late.
My Thoughts /
‘Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping might just be the most enjoyable, rewarding book I have ever written', said Craig Silvey, ‘I can promise that it will make you laugh and seize your heart, and it will be just as enriching and uplifting as you might expect from a trip to Upson Downs.'
Can confirm this to be the case - 💯%.
It was back in 2023, when author Craig Silvey, first introduced the reader to an agile, fast and cunning little stray dog called Runt. Although only small, Runt is spry, agile and athletic due to years of living on the streets. Runt can dart like a rabbit and climb like a monkey. The little dog is cunning, cheeky and clever. He is also fiercely loyal to his owner, Annie Shearer, and Annie Shearer is fiercely loyal to Runt.
In this instalment, Runt disappears and at the same time, a note appears on the Upson Downs Official town noticeboard which says Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.
Has someone taken Runt? It's a diabolical dognapping! Annie Shearer is lost, there is a huge Runt-shaped hole in her world. But there are clues. His doghouse is empty; there is a fish lying in the dirt; and a small, dirty rag nearby. Annie's brother Max is keen to investigate, even joining a newspaper office team in town. A new girl in town named Verity makes this all the more exciting, as she is the newspaper’s photographer. Between Max and Verity they discover more about Runt and his past before Upson Downs, but not who his kidnapper might be.
Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping has been aimed at a younger reading audience – ages 8-12. I grew up reading The Hardy Boys series and Nancy Drew books. This year’s generation of 8-12s will grow up reading wonderful titles like Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping, and that makes me very happy. You won’t have any trouble picking out adjectives to use to describe this book - heart-warming, affecting, heartening, rewarding, inspiring, elevating, uplifting, tender, moving, poignant, loving and the list just keeps going.
The writing is simple but effective and is sure to be a hit with both children and adults alike. Runt is full of whimsical, eccentric and larger than life characters with some added oddities and idiosyncrasies of rural Australia. Silvey has written his characters with a very Australian outback spirit. As tough as they come but with hearts as big as a bull elephant. Hope is the definite overarching feeling that brings this story to life.
This is an easy 5 stars from me. 🐕🐕🐕🐕🐕
September 13, 2025
Just as sweet, poignant and hopeful as you know it will be. I can’t articulate my feelings beyond this reads like a childhood favourite and I’m 46! All the ‘vocabulary expansion’ all the sweetest advice ‘…you’ve got to put your insides on the outside’ this is another classic, so glad I had the good sense to read it! Loved being with Annie and the ‘Runt shaped hole in her world’ out at the end of September, I got to read an arc thanks to Allen and Unwin 💙
December 5, 2025
Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping is the second book in the Runt series by award-winning best-selling Australian screenwriter and author, Craig Silvey. The text is again enhanced with charming illustrations by Sara Acton.
Some weeks after the Krumpet’s Show in London, and things are pretty good in Upson Downs when Mayor Barry Casserole calls in the townspeople for a Big Announcement: Upson Downs will be hosting A Tournament Of Champions. It will bring dogs, owners and spectators from all over the world.
A new face interrupts the meeting with incisive questions about funding. Rupert Broadsheet is the new editor-in-chief of the Upson Downs Speculator, in the employ of the Vulpine News Conglomerate. His daughter Verity (who seems to have a crush on Max Shearer) will be the paper’s photographer. He assures everyone the Speculator will bring people together, and offers Max a position as cadet reporter.
Mayor Casserole tells them that MUSH Canine Cuisine have agreed to sponsor the event on the condition that Annie Shearer and Runt are the face of it. Annie’s not too sure what they want to do, but before she and Runt can even decide, Runt is missing. Dognapped? Surely not! But a thorough search doesn’t find him.
Annie’s brother, Max notes the clues: Bryan heard a shriek in the night; there’s evidence of digging near Runt’s kennel; a scrap of strange cloth on the ground nearby; and a silver fish with a red stripe, just lying there. What does it all mean?
Asking around town, and putting up fliers, Annie spots a notice addressed to her: “Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.” Sergeant Duncan Bayleaf, who fancies himself a detective, is quick to arrest Fergus Fink, well-known to hold a huge grudge against Annie and Runt, and determined to get a confession.
Asked multiple times how she is feeling, “Annie looks down. Nobody looks back up at her. Because there is a Runt-shaped hole in her world.” The second note from the dognapper sets down a condition for Runt’s return that seems impossible to satisfy, and before matters are resolved, Annie seeks help from a surprising quarter.
And while Rupert Broadsheet’s journalism seems to be doing more dividing than uniting, Bryan, Susie and Max are there to provide support, each in their own special way. Susie Shearer has good advice for her daughter: “I know you don’t like people fussing. But it’s important to remember that when we ask about how you’re feeling, it’s because we care and we want to help, even if our tool belts aren’t as well equipped as yours. Because even if it can’t be fixed, sometimes the best thing to do with feelings is to share them, so you don’t have to carry them all around on your own.”
Bryan’s greenhouse efforts yield a Dinkumberry plant that gets quite a workout, though he later tells Max “trying to hide the truth is like trying to hold a balloon underwater. It’s slippery and wriggly and all it wants to do is bubble up to the surface.”
Silvey has lots of fun with the English language, his tongue-in-cheek character names and organisation titles, playing word games, and throwing in plenty of puns and alliteration, and a Thesaurus-worth of synonyms, all of which make this an entertaining read, not just for the target reader age, but for those well beyond their first decade. This is a book that will have you constantly chuckling and reaching the final page with a big smile on your face.
He gives the reader a wonderful cast of characters, and a tale with twists and surprises, and more than one red herring. There are moments of high drama, many of the laugh-out-loud variety and a few that will have the reader choking up with emotion. This is a story with a whole lot of love and maybe even a bit of magic. More of Runt and the Shearer family will be most welcome.
Some weeks after the Krumpet’s Show in London, and things are pretty good in Upson Downs when Mayor Barry Casserole calls in the townspeople for a Big Announcement: Upson Downs will be hosting A Tournament Of Champions. It will bring dogs, owners and spectators from all over the world.
A new face interrupts the meeting with incisive questions about funding. Rupert Broadsheet is the new editor-in-chief of the Upson Downs Speculator, in the employ of the Vulpine News Conglomerate. His daughter Verity (who seems to have a crush on Max Shearer) will be the paper’s photographer. He assures everyone the Speculator will bring people together, and offers Max a position as cadet reporter.
Mayor Casserole tells them that MUSH Canine Cuisine have agreed to sponsor the event on the condition that Annie Shearer and Runt are the face of it. Annie’s not too sure what they want to do, but before she and Runt can even decide, Runt is missing. Dognapped? Surely not! But a thorough search doesn’t find him.
Annie’s brother, Max notes the clues: Bryan heard a shriek in the night; there’s evidence of digging near Runt’s kennel; a scrap of strange cloth on the ground nearby; and a silver fish with a red stripe, just lying there. What does it all mean?
Asking around town, and putting up fliers, Annie spots a notice addressed to her: “Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.” Sergeant Duncan Bayleaf, who fancies himself a detective, is quick to arrest Fergus Fink, well-known to hold a huge grudge against Annie and Runt, and determined to get a confession.
Asked multiple times how she is feeling, “Annie looks down. Nobody looks back up at her. Because there is a Runt-shaped hole in her world.” The second note from the dognapper sets down a condition for Runt’s return that seems impossible to satisfy, and before matters are resolved, Annie seeks help from a surprising quarter.
And while Rupert Broadsheet’s journalism seems to be doing more dividing than uniting, Bryan, Susie and Max are there to provide support, each in their own special way. Susie Shearer has good advice for her daughter: “I know you don’t like people fussing. But it’s important to remember that when we ask about how you’re feeling, it’s because we care and we want to help, even if our tool belts aren’t as well equipped as yours. Because even if it can’t be fixed, sometimes the best thing to do with feelings is to share them, so you don’t have to carry them all around on your own.”
Bryan’s greenhouse efforts yield a Dinkumberry plant that gets quite a workout, though he later tells Max “trying to hide the truth is like trying to hold a balloon underwater. It’s slippery and wriggly and all it wants to do is bubble up to the surface.”
Silvey has lots of fun with the English language, his tongue-in-cheek character names and organisation titles, playing word games, and throwing in plenty of puns and alliteration, and a Thesaurus-worth of synonyms, all of which make this an entertaining read, not just for the target reader age, but for those well beyond their first decade. This is a book that will have you constantly chuckling and reaching the final page with a big smile on your face.
He gives the reader a wonderful cast of characters, and a tale with twists and surprises, and more than one red herring. There are moments of high drama, many of the laugh-out-loud variety and a few that will have the reader choking up with emotion. This is a story with a whole lot of love and maybe even a bit of magic. More of Runt and the Shearer family will be most welcome.
October 8, 2025
The long awaited sequel is here.
Runt, his best friend Annie, the Shearer family along with the town folk have captured the hearts of Australians all over the country.
Return to Upson Downs and enjoy Annie and Runt’s next adventure.
It’s been six weeks since the events of the first book.
Now a new competition has been announced.
The Tournament Of Champions.
The Upson Downs community is in celebration mode and all the best dogs are attending the gala in the abandoned estate of Earl Robert-Barren.
Then Runt goes missing and a note is left behind.
Annie and her brother Max begin an investigation.
Now they need to find Runt before it’s too late.
The first Runt bestseller has won many awards and even a successful movie was released with an all star Aussie cast.
Continuing the story that’s charming, inspiring, delightful, funny, entertaining, exciting and truly magnetic, it’s another instant classic.
A wonderful writer leaves a heartwarming message to all his readers within the pages of a wonderful book.
Shout out to Sara Acton for her eye catching drawings throughout.
A book for the whole family.
Runt, his best friend Annie, the Shearer family along with the town folk have captured the hearts of Australians all over the country.
Return to Upson Downs and enjoy Annie and Runt’s next adventure.
It’s been six weeks since the events of the first book.
Now a new competition has been announced.
The Tournament Of Champions.
The Upson Downs community is in celebration mode and all the best dogs are attending the gala in the abandoned estate of Earl Robert-Barren.
Then Runt goes missing and a note is left behind.
Annie and her brother Max begin an investigation.
Now they need to find Runt before it’s too late.
The first Runt bestseller has won many awards and even a successful movie was released with an all star Aussie cast.
Continuing the story that’s charming, inspiring, delightful, funny, entertaining, exciting and truly magnetic, it’s another instant classic.
A wonderful writer leaves a heartwarming message to all his readers within the pages of a wonderful book.
Shout out to Sara Acton for her eye catching drawings throughout.
A book for the whole family.
November 8, 2025
An excellent sequel to Runt.
Definitely for a slightly older audience - the story loses its ‘childhood adventure’ aspect and picks up more of a ‘mystery’ approach - also some language and narrative elements that just seem to be for a more mature audience.
Mr 9 loved it but would have liked another chapter about Runt at the end.
Definitely for a slightly older audience - the story loses its ‘childhood adventure’ aspect and picks up more of a ‘mystery’ approach - also some language and narrative elements that just seem to be for a more mature audience.
Mr 9 loved it but would have liked another chapter about Runt at the end.
October 14, 2025
Whimsical, wonderful, witty, warm-hearted....and that's just the 'Ws'!!!! I loved being back in the town of Upson Downs. Loved Annie's determination to succeed, loved her parents supporting her through her self doubt. LOVED the beautiful heart that Runt the dog has. Loved the side stories. Thank you Craig Silvey for producing a sequel that I lapped up with a smile on my face and warmth in my heart ❤️
November 1, 2025
A delightful follow up to Runt, this is a sweet story about kindness and the lengths we go to when supporting those we love.
November 2, 2025
Another brilliant book for the whole family from Craig Silvey! We loved this just as much as the first Runt story. So many clever techniques and sentimental, poignant touches that make this a heartwarming and thoroughly enjoyable read. More adventures of Annie and Runt please!
November 30, 2025
I didn't think Silvey could make the second as good as the first, but he's done it again. This sequel has all the warm, wonderful whimsy as the first Runt story, but with the added bonus of a well-crafted mystery. Every character is developed perfectly and is important to the story, and I loved every moment.
November 19, 2025
I really enjoy everything that Craig Silvey writes but this particular series does hold a special place in my heart. It is a such a heartwarming story from start to finish. Annie is such a light in these books that shows such courage, strength, and really represents how BIG emotions can be really hard for little kids to express. All of the characters learn from each other and about how they want to represent themselves, and also how their actions may negatively impact other people's feelings (even if that wasn't the intention). This book represents many ways you can learn from your mistakes, take accountability and show kindness to those who've been hurt.
December 9, 2025
A classic mystery, but not the spooky kind. All the praise this book was getting was well, and I mean really well deserved. Heartwarming as always, funny and humours too. Annie Shearer and Bonzo Bill’s stories are funny, sad and more. If you want a funny mystery, read this! This book was so amazing, I read it in one sitting.
October 18, 2025
Another master piece from Craig Silvey. The second novel in the Runt series, we are reunited with the Shearer family and the town of Upson Down. There’s an introduction of some new characters as well. Whilst Runt doesn’t feature heavily in the story (he has been dognapped), readers will find this a charming and well written book, with an explosion of vocabulary which will help young people with adjectives and figurative language. Highly recommend as a class read by a teacher. Definitely read the first book as this story follows on, 6 weeks from where Book 1 ends.
October 11, 2025
A brilliant sequel and I’m sure my class will love reading it once we finish the first book!
October 27, 2025
So good !! Was so lovely to spend time in Upsan Downs, I’m going to go straight back in for a second read
October 25, 2025
As a teacher and a huge fan of the first one, I had high hopes. The first third felt like Craig Silvey had been forced to write a sequel. It seemed too ridiculous that a world level dog show would be coming to Upton Downs and why is Runt absent from two thirds of the book? Was there heart? Yes. Do you still love Annie and her family? Yes. It just didn’t have the same underlying drive that the original premise had which was to save her family’s farm.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2025
Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping is the second book in the Runt series by award-winning best-selling Australian screenwriter and author, Craig Silvey. The text is again enhanced with charming illustrations by Sara Acton. The audio version is narrated by Genevieve Hegney.
Some weeks after the Krumpet’s Show in London, and things are pretty good in Upson Downs when Mayor Barry Casserole calls in the townspeople for a Big Announcement: Upson Downs will be hosting A Tournament Of Champions. It will bring dogs, owners and spectators from all over the world.
A new face interrupts the meeting with incisive questions about funding. Rupert Broadsheet is the new editor-in-chief of the Upson Downs Speculator, in the employ of the Vulpine News Conglomerate. His daughter Verity (who seems to have a crush on Max Shearer) will be the paper’s photographer. He assures everyone the Speculator will bring people together, and offers Max a position as cadet reporter.
Mayor Casserole tells them that MUSH Canine Cuisine have agreed to sponsor the event on the condition that Annie Shearer and Runt are the face of it. Annie’s not too sure what they want to do, but before she and Runt can even decide, Runt is missing. Dognapped? Surely not! But a thorough search doesn’t find him.
Annie’s brother, Max notes the clues: Bryan heard a shriek in the night; there’s evidence of digging near Runt’s kennel; a scrap of strange cloth on the ground nearby; and a silver fish with a red stripe, just lying there. What does it all mean?
Asking around town, and putting up fliers, Annie spots a notice addressed to her: “Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.” Sergeant Duncan Bayleaf, who fancies himself a detective, is quick to arrest Fergus Fink, well-known to hold a huge grudge against Annie and Runt, and determined to get a confession.
Asked multiple times how she is feeling, “Annie looks down. Nobody looks back up at her. Because there is a Runt-shaped hole in her world.” The second note from the dognapper sets down a condition for Runt’s return that seems impossible to satisfy, and before matters are resolved, Annie seeks help from a surprising quarter.
And while Rupert Broadsheet’s journalism seems to be doing more dividing than uniting, Bryan, Susie and Max are there to provide support, each in their own special way. Susie Shearer has good advice for her daughter: “I know you don’t like people fussing. But it’s important to remember that when we ask about how you’re feeling, it’s because we care and we want to help, even if our tool belts aren’t as well equipped as yours. Because even if it can’t be fixed, sometimes the best thing to do with feelings is to share them, so you don’t have to carry them all around on your own.”
Bryan’s greenhouse efforts yield a Dinkumberry plant that gets quite a workout, though he later tells Max “trying to hide the truth is like trying to hold a balloon underwater. It’s slippery and wriggly and all it wants to do is bubble up to the surface.”
Silvey has lots of fun with the English language, his tongue-in-cheek character names and organisation titles, playing word games, and throwing in plenty of puns and alliteration, and a Thesaurus-worth of synonyms, all of which make this an entertaining read, not just for the target reader age, but for those well beyond their first decade. This is a book that will have you constantly chuckling and reaching the final page with a big smile on your face.
He gives the reader a wonderful cast of characters, and a tale with twists and surprises, and more than one red herring. There are moments of high drama, many of the laugh-out-loud variety and a few that will have the reader choking up with emotion. This is a story with a whole lot of love and maybe even a bit of magic. More of Runt and the Shearer family will be most welcome.
Some weeks after the Krumpet’s Show in London, and things are pretty good in Upson Downs when Mayor Barry Casserole calls in the townspeople for a Big Announcement: Upson Downs will be hosting A Tournament Of Champions. It will bring dogs, owners and spectators from all over the world.
A new face interrupts the meeting with incisive questions about funding. Rupert Broadsheet is the new editor-in-chief of the Upson Downs Speculator, in the employ of the Vulpine News Conglomerate. His daughter Verity (who seems to have a crush on Max Shearer) will be the paper’s photographer. He assures everyone the Speculator will bring people together, and offers Max a position as cadet reporter.
Mayor Casserole tells them that MUSH Canine Cuisine have agreed to sponsor the event on the condition that Annie Shearer and Runt are the face of it. Annie’s not too sure what they want to do, but before she and Runt can even decide, Runt is missing. Dognapped? Surely not! But a thorough search doesn’t find him.
Annie’s brother, Max notes the clues: Bryan heard a shriek in the night; there’s evidence of digging near Runt’s kennel; a scrap of strange cloth on the ground nearby; and a silver fish with a red stripe, just lying there. What does it all mean?
Asking around town, and putting up fliers, Annie spots a notice addressed to her: “Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.” Sergeant Duncan Bayleaf, who fancies himself a detective, is quick to arrest Fergus Fink, well-known to hold a huge grudge against Annie and Runt, and determined to get a confession.
Asked multiple times how she is feeling, “Annie looks down. Nobody looks back up at her. Because there is a Runt-shaped hole in her world.” The second note from the dognapper sets down a condition for Runt’s return that seems impossible to satisfy, and before matters are resolved, Annie seeks help from a surprising quarter.
And while Rupert Broadsheet’s journalism seems to be doing more dividing than uniting, Bryan, Susie and Max are there to provide support, each in their own special way. Susie Shearer has good advice for her daughter: “I know you don’t like people fussing. But it’s important to remember that when we ask about how you’re feeling, it’s because we care and we want to help, even if our tool belts aren’t as well equipped as yours. Because even if it can’t be fixed, sometimes the best thing to do with feelings is to share them, so you don’t have to carry them all around on your own.”
Bryan’s greenhouse efforts yield a Dinkumberry plant that gets quite a workout, though he later tells Max “trying to hide the truth is like trying to hold a balloon underwater. It’s slippery and wriggly and all it wants to do is bubble up to the surface.”
Silvey has lots of fun with the English language, his tongue-in-cheek character names and organisation titles, playing word games, and throwing in plenty of puns and alliteration, and a Thesaurus-worth of synonyms, all of which make this an entertaining read, not just for the target reader age, but for those well beyond their first decade. This is a book that will have you constantly chuckling and reaching the final page with a big smile on your face.
He gives the reader a wonderful cast of characters, and a tale with twists and surprises, and more than one red herring. There are moments of high drama, many of the laugh-out-loud variety and a few that will have the reader choking up with emotion. This is a story with a whole lot of love and maybe even a bit of magic. More of Runt and the Shearer family will be most welcome.
October 3, 2025
Upson Downs is a much happier place now that the rains have been, leaving the farms lush and busy again. The town villain was washed away in the resulting flood, and his property is to be the venue for another worldwide dog competition – The Tournament of Champions.
Annie Shearer isn’t sure about being in that much spotlight with her canine star, Runt again, but soon has a bigger worry. Runt has vanished! One morning they find his doghouse empty, a fish lying in the dirt, and a small, dirty rag nearby.
The world is shocked at his disappearance, but no more than the Shearer family, especially his best friend, Annie.
Her brother Max is keen to investigate, even joining a newspaper office team in town. A new girl in town named Verity makes this all the more exciting, as she is the newspaper’s photographer. Max is quite taken with the quiet shy daughter of the new newspaper owner.
Between Max and Verity they discover more about Runt and his past before Upson Downs, but not who his kidnapper might be.
As the Tournament of Champions approaches, the blame game for Runt’s whereabouts is flying around town, with neighbour against neighbour. Annie isn’t listening to them however. All she wants is Runt, and she knows she must compete in the Tournament to get him back. But how can she if she doesn’t have her furry friend and star?
Max’s research and two unlikely heroes come to Annie’s rescue, and bring the truth about her beloved dog. Along with his past, his disappearance, and his now.
Just like the 1st blockbuster book and movie, Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping is simply wonderful!
With a cleverly constructed plot, hilarious, corny characters, and more mysteries than you can shake a bone at, this sequel left me with warm fuzzies from top to toe.
There are stories within the story which are wonderful themselves, which are then effortlessly woven into the heart wrenching finale.
I think I love this sequel even more than the first, but I know that without the phenomenon of Runt (1), I wouldn’t have enjoyed it so much. A circle I’m quite happy to go round and round in, until I read it all over again.
Annie Shearer isn’t sure about being in that much spotlight with her canine star, Runt again, but soon has a bigger worry. Runt has vanished! One morning they find his doghouse empty, a fish lying in the dirt, and a small, dirty rag nearby.
The world is shocked at his disappearance, but no more than the Shearer family, especially his best friend, Annie.
Her brother Max is keen to investigate, even joining a newspaper office team in town. A new girl in town named Verity makes this all the more exciting, as she is the newspaper’s photographer. Max is quite taken with the quiet shy daughter of the new newspaper owner.
Between Max and Verity they discover more about Runt and his past before Upson Downs, but not who his kidnapper might be.
As the Tournament of Champions approaches, the blame game for Runt’s whereabouts is flying around town, with neighbour against neighbour. Annie isn’t listening to them however. All she wants is Runt, and she knows she must compete in the Tournament to get him back. But how can she if she doesn’t have her furry friend and star?
Max’s research and two unlikely heroes come to Annie’s rescue, and bring the truth about her beloved dog. Along with his past, his disappearance, and his now.
Just like the 1st blockbuster book and movie, Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping is simply wonderful!
With a cleverly constructed plot, hilarious, corny characters, and more mysteries than you can shake a bone at, this sequel left me with warm fuzzies from top to toe.
There are stories within the story which are wonderful themselves, which are then effortlessly woven into the heart wrenching finale.
I think I love this sequel even more than the first, but I know that without the phenomenon of Runt (1), I wouldn’t have enjoyed it so much. A circle I’m quite happy to go round and round in, until I read it all over again.
December 1, 2025
Bonzer Bill had been famous. His stage act had made him rich and famous. He was generous to everyone, giving away his fortune. Then the crowds started to thin. He keeps performing but, fewer people come to see him. The little pup, small and brown, had been scrounging scraps to stay alive. When he meets an old man living in crates, he does rolls and tricks for him. They share food and friendship.
Upson Downs has green fields and new shop owners. People have returned to their farms. The town Mayor, Barry Casserole, announces that the town will host 'The Tournament of Champions', sponsored by Mush Canine Cusine. All because Annie Shearer and her dog RUNT have made their town famous by performing the Agility section at Krumpets Dog Show. It will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Robert-Barren estate. International groups, including Krumpets Dog Show, will attract the finest talent and prize money. What could go wrong?
The next day, Annie can't find RUNT. She searches everywhere but can't find him, and no one's seen him. She prints flyers to pin up all around town. When she goes to the town notice board, there is a note - Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.
The search continues through twists and turns. Annie's brother, Max, is asked to join the local newspaper by Rupert Broadsheet and his daughter, Verity. The town becomes suspicious, and neighbours bicker with each other.
Where is Runt? Max is on the investigation with Verity. They discover old records about Bonzer Bill, and his death certificate. So he can't be the culprit. It's another dead end.
This book is so well-crafted. I love the family and town characters. Thank you, Craig Silvey, for bringing RUNT into the world. What a wonderful story.
Upson Downs has green fields and new shop owners. People have returned to their farms. The town Mayor, Barry Casserole, announces that the town will host 'The Tournament of Champions', sponsored by Mush Canine Cusine. All because Annie Shearer and her dog RUNT have made their town famous by performing the Agility section at Krumpets Dog Show. It will be held in the Grand Ballroom of the Robert-Barren estate. International groups, including Krumpets Dog Show, will attract the finest talent and prize money. What could go wrong?
The next day, Annie can't find RUNT. She searches everywhere but can't find him, and no one's seen him. She prints flyers to pin up all around town. When she goes to the town notice board, there is a note - Annie Shearer. I have your dog. Await my instructions.
The search continues through twists and turns. Annie's brother, Max, is asked to join the local newspaper by Rupert Broadsheet and his daughter, Verity. The town becomes suspicious, and neighbours bicker with each other.
Where is Runt? Max is on the investigation with Verity. They discover old records about Bonzer Bill, and his death certificate. So he can't be the culprit. It's another dead end.
This book is so well-crafted. I love the family and town characters. Thank you, Craig Silvey, for bringing RUNT into the world. What a wonderful story.
October 6, 2025
Craig Silvey has done it again. This is another story filled with love, hope, family, despair, worry, intrepidness, inventiveness, determination, bravery, redemption, second chances, and above all sometimes wearing your insides on your outsides.
When Runt is seemingly kidnapped it is young Annie Shearer who again needs to be the one to save the day, with the ransom note saying she will only see Runt again if she wins an event at the Tournament of Champions dog show. But without Runt does Annie even have a chance?
Annie comes up with a solution and surprisingly enlists Fergus Fink, her nemesis from the Krumpets dog show, to help her. With the unwavering support of her parents Barry and Susie, the investigative powers of her brother Max and a has been dancer called Cha Cha Galore, Annie might just win the day and Runt's freedom.
But of course things never run as smoothly as they should and there are some tense moments. Learning about Runt's backstory and what really happened to Runt, well of course there were tears shed. Both happy and sad tears.
I was chuckling out loud at the turns of phrase and the extremely imaginative character names in this story. With Mervyn Froth the local publican, Doug Hole the local handyman and Don Grubb the butcher to name a few, there is such a sense of whimsy that I just adored. I must admit that I did miss Grandma Dolly's presence in this book.
This is a fitting follow up to Runt and fingers crossed this gets made into a movie as well. Oh and I am all in for Annie and Runt's next adventure!
When Runt is seemingly kidnapped it is young Annie Shearer who again needs to be the one to save the day, with the ransom note saying she will only see Runt again if she wins an event at the Tournament of Champions dog show. But without Runt does Annie even have a chance?
Annie comes up with a solution and surprisingly enlists Fergus Fink, her nemesis from the Krumpets dog show, to help her. With the unwavering support of her parents Barry and Susie, the investigative powers of her brother Max and a has been dancer called Cha Cha Galore, Annie might just win the day and Runt's freedom.
But of course things never run as smoothly as they should and there are some tense moments. Learning about Runt's backstory and what really happened to Runt, well of course there were tears shed. Both happy and sad tears.
I was chuckling out loud at the turns of phrase and the extremely imaginative character names in this story. With Mervyn Froth the local publican, Doug Hole the local handyman and Don Grubb the butcher to name a few, there is such a sense of whimsy that I just adored. I must admit that I did miss Grandma Dolly's presence in this book.
This is a fitting follow up to Runt and fingers crossed this gets made into a movie as well. Oh and I am all in for Annie and Runt's next adventure!
December 1, 2025
Another fabulous instalment in the Runt series, which again, I can’t wait to share with my daughter Brynn when she gets a little older - these books are truly ones to be treasured.
Here, Runt disappears and at the same time, a note appears on the Upson Downs towns noticeboard, addressed to Annie Shearer and what follows is a huge investigation that the whole town gets in on and story that’s full of adventure, heart, love, community, connection and humour.
There’s one part of the story that really sticks in my mind and it’s where the townsfolk all have different theories and suspicions on what has happened to Runt and it’s here that Craig truly showcases his ability to write a story that truly captures an audience and the humour of those young and old - I let out multiple giggles at this time - one theory was that he was made into a sausage 🫣 - this is the type of dark humour gets me good 😂
I also found Max even more hilarious, as he takes on a serious role of investigating, along side the team at the local newspaper and I was even rooting for his town plans to be approved - this kid sure is inventive!
I wonder what Runt will get up to next?? 👀
Here, Runt disappears and at the same time, a note appears on the Upson Downs towns noticeboard, addressed to Annie Shearer and what follows is a huge investigation that the whole town gets in on and story that’s full of adventure, heart, love, community, connection and humour.
There’s one part of the story that really sticks in my mind and it’s where the townsfolk all have different theories and suspicions on what has happened to Runt and it’s here that Craig truly showcases his ability to write a story that truly captures an audience and the humour of those young and old - I let out multiple giggles at this time - one theory was that he was made into a sausage 🫣 - this is the type of dark humour gets me good 😂
I also found Max even more hilarious, as he takes on a serious role of investigating, along side the team at the local newspaper and I was even rooting for his town plans to be approved - this kid sure is inventive!
I wonder what Runt will get up to next?? 👀
October 8, 2025
I loved Runt, so I had to pick this one up. It wasn’t a book I thought needed a sequel, but I wasn’t going to miss it.
Upson Downs is going to host the next big dog show, but Annie isn’t sure she wants to enter. They’ve achieved what they set out for, and she’s happy to stay the invisible girl with the dog. Her choice is taken away though when Runt is dognapped, and the note says he’ll be returned when she wins the dog show.
Yes, this is contradictory, because how can she win without a dog? But Annie is a fixer.
I didn’t like this as much as the first book, It still has the same humour and whimsy of the first book, but as Runt is absent for most of it, it just didn’t have the same heart and overwhelming love and acceptance the first had. It’s sweet but I just didn’t want to marinate in it afterwards with my heart set to bursting. It is hard to top that first book.
Upson Downs is going to host the next big dog show, but Annie isn’t sure she wants to enter. They’ve achieved what they set out for, and she’s happy to stay the invisible girl with the dog. Her choice is taken away though when Runt is dognapped, and the note says he’ll be returned when she wins the dog show.
Yes, this is contradictory, because how can she win without a dog? But Annie is a fixer.
I didn’t like this as much as the first book, It still has the same humour and whimsy of the first book, but as Runt is absent for most of it, it just didn’t have the same heart and overwhelming love and acceptance the first had. It’s sweet but I just didn’t want to marinate in it afterwards with my heart set to bursting. It is hard to top that first book.
December 1, 2025
The mayor has organised an international dog competition to bring fame and wealth to the struggling country town of Upson Downs, spring boarding off Annie and Runt's stellar performance in England in #1. But Runt disappears and, with prompting from the newly arrived newspaper editor, distrust and unease unfold.
Significant characters have their own agendas, mostly not if the best interests of Annie or Runt as the plot thickens, the tension builds and Annie tires to fill the hole in heart where Runt belongs.
There is a great deal of conniving and greedy misdeeds that build to a crescendo at the competition.
A need for some background stories to bring the plot to fruition are a bit long and convoluted for younger primary readers, but good for those a bit older. Occasional pencil illustrations support the story line but are a bit obscure to e easily interpreted. An entertaining and humorous story that explores human behaviour - the good and the bad - for a heartwarming story.
Significant characters have their own agendas, mostly not if the best interests of Annie or Runt as the plot thickens, the tension builds and Annie tires to fill the hole in heart where Runt belongs.
There is a great deal of conniving and greedy misdeeds that build to a crescendo at the competition.
A need for some background stories to bring the plot to fruition are a bit long and convoluted for younger primary readers, but good for those a bit older. Occasional pencil illustrations support the story line but are a bit obscure to e easily interpreted. An entertaining and humorous story that explores human behaviour - the good and the bad - for a heartwarming story.
October 31, 2025
Craig Silvey, the finest writer of excellent books for kids of any age, has produced yet another winner. It's absolutely the very finest of entertainment. More of the Runt we loved, and his back story, and a lot more of Annie and her family and their struggles and tribulations with the best in sunny dispositions imaginable.
Runt has been dognapped. He is gone. There are clues and Annie is desperate to follow the clues and find out who has so diabolically taken her dog. But there are red herrings, dodgy dealings and terrible both annoying and conniving folk everywhere. Who can be trusted? Seems like everyone is up to something dodgy.
This has a little bit of love, a lot of excellent word exploration, some sad stories and a whole lot of heart. Read it aloud to your kids, read it because you love a great story and read it because it is thoroughly joyful and fun.
Runt has been dognapped. He is gone. There are clues and Annie is desperate to follow the clues and find out who has so diabolically taken her dog. But there are red herrings, dodgy dealings and terrible both annoying and conniving folk everywhere. Who can be trusted? Seems like everyone is up to something dodgy.
This has a little bit of love, a lot of excellent word exploration, some sad stories and a whole lot of heart. Read it aloud to your kids, read it because you love a great story and read it because it is thoroughly joyful and fun.
October 3, 2025
Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping by Craig Silvey is such a beautiful and fun read! 🐶✨ And the illustrations inside were just lovely!
This sequel picks up six weeks after the Krumpets Dog Show, with Annie and Runt once again at the heart of the story. But when Runt mysteriously goes missing and a ransom note appears, Annie and her brother Max must unravel the mystery and fight to bring him home.
It’s charming, heartfelt, and full of humour, with a mystery that keeps you hooked until the very end. I loved how this book balances lighthearted fun with real warmth and heart! Craig Silvey captures friendship, family, and courage in such a wonderful way!
If you loved Runt, you’ll adore this sequel. It’s clever, tender, and just as moving as the first book! 💙
This sequel picks up six weeks after the Krumpets Dog Show, with Annie and Runt once again at the heart of the story. But when Runt mysteriously goes missing and a ransom note appears, Annie and her brother Max must unravel the mystery and fight to bring him home.
It’s charming, heartfelt, and full of humour, with a mystery that keeps you hooked until the very end. I loved how this book balances lighthearted fun with real warmth and heart! Craig Silvey captures friendship, family, and courage in such a wonderful way!
If you loved Runt, you’ll adore this sequel. It’s clever, tender, and just as moving as the first book! 💙
October 16, 2025
Craig did it again, and made me shed a tear reading this.
Annie is back with Runt. But Runt goes missing and the hunt is on to find the dognapper.
We learn about who Runt belonged to before he met Annie, and we learn the story of Bonzer Bill and Earl who becomes a pivotal part of the story.
There is another dog show competition - this time in their actual town. So helps promote the town.
And even Max the dare devil finds some emotions when Verity arrives in town.
There are liars and characters wanting the attention.
But in the end Runt was just following his instinct to help people. Showing loyalty
Annie is back with Runt. But Runt goes missing and the hunt is on to find the dognapper.
We learn about who Runt belonged to before he met Annie, and we learn the story of Bonzer Bill and Earl who becomes a pivotal part of the story.
There is another dog show competition - this time in their actual town. So helps promote the town.
And even Max the dare devil finds some emotions when Verity arrives in town.
There are liars and characters wanting the attention.
But in the end Runt was just following his instinct to help people. Showing loyalty
November 15, 2025
I enjoyed following up with all the main characters from the first book, Runt, as well as meeting new ones. There are many characters in the book, and although I enjoyed the narrative, I would have preferred a hard copy to read, just to keep track of everyone. Despite all that this is a mostly fun story with many light hearted moments and laugh out loud moments. Sharing family love,community support and showing individuals that eventually find their own truth, I recommend the book to all ages. This is a book I’d love for my teenage grand kids to read so we could share in a discussion about it.
November 4, 2025
I unashamedly cried happy tears as I finished this story while reading to my children. Beautifully written, and expertly crafted, this story demonstrated the depth and complexity of the author.
A sequel to the popular “Runt” which was turned into a movie, this book continues the story, adding so much detail to the characters that they are (in many ways) unrecognisable from the original. I loved the elements of poetry, the jumps between history and present, and the ever strong bond between person and canine.
100% a 5 star from myself and my family. We loved this story.
A sequel to the popular “Runt” which was turned into a movie, this book continues the story, adding so much detail to the characters that they are (in many ways) unrecognisable from the original. I loved the elements of poetry, the jumps between history and present, and the ever strong bond between person and canine.
100% a 5 star from myself and my family. We loved this story.
October 2, 2025
No surprises here. I loved this. The action-packed sequel to the beloved 'Runt' follows Annie Shearer and her beloved dog, Runt after he was duh,duh,duh...dognapped!! Classic "whodunnit" that read more like a true crime than a junior fiction. Good, wholesome, fun for all ages 9-99!
Read by Belinda & Sage
Read by Belinda & Sage
October 4, 2025
What a triumphant follow-up to the fabulous ‘Runt’. The characters and setting that Craig Silvey has created are fantastic and there is so much humour, word play and heart in this story. I loved the ending. I couldn’t wait to read this and it didn’t disappoint. I can’t wait to share this book with my students.
October 8, 2025
Book 2 was filled with emotion, heart and true friendship. This incredible dog 🐕 is called Runt. A hero, a companion, a friend. He is truly remarkable. I really hope this story is adapted into a sequel film. I recommend this story created by Craig Silvey. Craig has written a great story of friendship, family and community of a true blue Aussie story. l enjoyed it.
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