Saving Bone

by Shelley Stoehr

Izzy and bff Seven (whose name was supposed to have been “Steven”, but the “t” was left off his birth certificate) set out to rescue a dog, Bone, from its abusive owner. Although they fail repeatedly, they cannot stop trying—though Izzy wonders why not. What's so important that they have to risk "life and limb" to save this dog?

But then Izzy learns a truth about Seven, a reality that is so horrible, that she realizes it isn’t only Bone who needs saving—it is Seven.

151 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 14, 2014

About the author

Shelley Stoehr is the author of four young adult novels, including Crosses (1991), the first YA novel about self-injury. She publishes internationally in fiction, poetry, and creative nonfiction and has received awards from the DeGroot Foundation, The North American Review, New Millennium Sunshots, Writer's Digest, WOW: Women on Writing, The New York Public Library, and the American Library Association. In her work, Shelley explores the complex and often unspoken challenges that marginalized girls and women face, providing readers with a window into subjects that they might not otherwise have encountered or understood. Shelley seeks to challenge societal stigmas and to encourage open dialogues about issues that are often shrouded in silence. Ultimately, her goal is to create stories that not only engage and entertain but also inform and empower readers. Shelley identifies as disabled and is a former sex worker. She teaches writing at Southern Connecticut State University, Gateway Community College, and the University of New Haven.

Free Reader's Guide and Discussion Questions available for download at the author's website.

Reviews

[Carol Boyer]

I was delighted to read this book which although a YA novel, is a perfect read for all ages. It was heart wrenching and so very heart warming at the same time. The author has captured the very essence of her characters feelings in a very realistic way. Izzy is a young girl who feels determined to help her best friend Seven save a poor, neglected and abused dog. Izzy is bold yet vulnerable, and yes easily hurt but keeps on going. She remember her father telling her "Hurt People Hurt People". Their plan is fraught with danger and their first try fails. Once again with another plan they capture and hide Bone, when suddenly the owner tracks them down and fear grips them as he threatens them. What Izzy learns is that there is more to Seven than she knew, she follows gut instinct keeping secrets but having to deal with a reality she never saw coming. There are layers to this story that are often hard to read, yet they are what makes this story one that is so real, and you have to love the courage of these children. Saving Bone is an book that keeps your heart pacing, as you keep the pages turning to find out what happens. I loved it and recommend it to anyone who loves animals and children. I hope to read more of Shelley's works.

[Jo]

Saving Bone: whatever the cost...
I usually read paranormal stories but 'Saving Bone' was a nice surprise, I enjoyed the characters and saw them grow before my eyes. Saving Bone has drama, true friendship, and discovering that first innocent crush. It deals with difficult situations, but for a 10 year old girl, there is only one answer: Saving Bone no matter what.