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Madeline Finn #3
Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog
Madeline Finn and Star are back--and now Star is old enough to become a therapy dog. Will our beloved team be able to pass the test?
Madeline Finn and Star are off to Walker Oaks, a retirement community where Star will take his tests to become a therapy dog. Accompanied by Mom, Mrs. Dimple, and Bonnie, she and Star make their way through a variety of challenges and meet several new friends. But Madeline Finn can't stop thinking about an elderly man in a wheelchair who never smiles. Is there something she and Star can do to help?
A companion to the Lisa Papp's best-selling books Madeline Finn and the Library Dog and Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog, this heartwarming story explores the therapy dog training process and provides a realistic and appealing example of a young person making a difference in her community.
Madeline Finn and Star are off to Walker Oaks, a retirement community where Star will take his tests to become a therapy dog. Accompanied by Mom, Mrs. Dimple, and Bonnie, she and Star make their way through a variety of challenges and meet several new friends. But Madeline Finn can't stop thinking about an elderly man in a wheelchair who never smiles. Is there something she and Star can do to help?
A companion to the Lisa Papp's best-selling books Madeline Finn and the Library Dog and Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog, this heartwarming story explores the therapy dog training process and provides a realistic and appealing example of a young person making a difference in her community.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2020
3 people are currently reading
139 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Papp
28 books70 followersMADELINE FINN AND THE LIBRARY DOG is the 2017 CBC Children's Choice Award Winner in the K - 2 Book of the Year category.
Madeline Finn comes straight from the heart.
I am continually inspired by these amazing Therapy Dogs and their handlers. They let me tag along for the better part of a year where I witnessed one magical moment after the next. Many of the dogs featured in the book are former shelter dogs, now living a new life helping children, and I'm proud to say this book continues to raise money for these wonderful programs.
Everyone knows dogs are masters at unconditional love. When a child senses they are accepted exactly as they are, their fears drop away. Doors open. It’s tough to put into words the beautiful bond between the animals and children. I hope this story shares a little bit of that magic.
MADELINE FINN AND THE LIBRARY DOG is a 2016 Parent's Choice Award Recommended book, a 2017 Children's Book Council Children's Choice Award Winner, and has been translated into 21 languages. Lisa Papp won the 2012 Storytelling Award, and a 2011 NAPPA Honor Award for The Town that Fooled the British, illustrated by her husband, Robert. Some of her favorite writers are L.M. Montgomery, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Sally Gardner. Illustrators she adores are Lisbeth Zwerger, Rien Poortvliet, and, of course, Robert Papp. She and her husband live in eastern Pennsylvania with their three wildly creative cats.
Madeline Finn comes straight from the heart.
I am continually inspired by these amazing Therapy Dogs and their handlers. They let me tag along for the better part of a year where I witnessed one magical moment after the next. Many of the dogs featured in the book are former shelter dogs, now living a new life helping children, and I'm proud to say this book continues to raise money for these wonderful programs.
Everyone knows dogs are masters at unconditional love. When a child senses they are accepted exactly as they are, their fears drop away. Doors open. It’s tough to put into words the beautiful bond between the animals and children. I hope this story shares a little bit of that magic.
MADELINE FINN AND THE LIBRARY DOG is a 2016 Parent's Choice Award Recommended book, a 2017 Children's Book Council Children's Choice Award Winner, and has been translated into 21 languages. Lisa Papp won the 2012 Storytelling Award, and a 2011 NAPPA Honor Award for The Town that Fooled the British, illustrated by her husband, Robert. Some of her favorite writers are L.M. Montgomery, J.R.R. Tolkien, and Sally Gardner. Illustrators she adores are Lisbeth Zwerger, Rien Poortvliet, and, of course, Robert Papp. She and her husband live in eastern Pennsylvania with their three wildly creative cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 107 reviews
January 19, 2026
In a Nutshell: The third picture book in the Madeline Finn series, and just as beautiful and impactful. I’ve run out of adjectives to praise this series, so just go for it.
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Plot Preview:
By now, I expect the sun and the moon and the *Star* from this book series, and it delivers every time!
Yet again, the book brings to us the delectable combo of dogs and reading, with a fresh new setting of the retirement community.
Madeline is a joy this time around as well. I love how this young girl has so much of empathy and sincerity in her actions. She also doesn’t shy away from talking to adults about her concerns and heeding their advice – a lesson all little children ought to remember.
Through Star’s tests, we also get to see how stringently dogs are tested before they can work as therapy dogs. It was nice to see his momma Bonnie be there to encourage him.
This book too offers several practical life lessons, including the important one of having patience with others. I love how both the second and the third books indicate simple and practical ways by which even a child can make a difference in their local community. All that you need is time, love, and willingness.
The page layout is perfect this time as well. I love how balance the stories always are between the artwork and the text, never letting any page feel cluttered.
What new things can I say about the illustrations! I think it helps when picture book authors are illustrators too, because they know exactly what they want to convey through the text and incorporate that mood in the graphics.
The audiobook, clocking at a little less than ten minutes, is narrated by Merissa Czyz. A different narrator this time, but the quality hasn’t reduced. Czyz does just as fine a job as Frutkin did with the first two books. To those who enjoy picture books on audio, this is a great option. I do miss the illustrations every time.
In short, recommended without a doubt! This lovely series will be perfect for little readers aged 4-8. Given the plotline, this book would work wonderfully at homes as well as in classrooms.
5 howls-of-happiness stars!
This was again a library read for the audio version, with some cheating by opting for the lovely Youtube version read by ‘Storytime With Lorelei’ so that I could look at the graphics.
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I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
Star has a test, and Madeline is doing everything she can to prepare him for it. On the big day, Madeline and Star are off to Walker Oaks, a retirement community, where Star will be tested on his potential as a therapy dog. The tests have a smooth start, and Madeline’s mom is confident that Star did well. But Madeline herself can't help but think about an elderly man in a wheelchair who never smiled or looked their way. Can Star do better with him? Can she help in any way?
The story comes to us in Madeline’s first-person perspective.
By now, I expect the sun and the moon and the *Star* from this book series, and it delivers every time!
Yet again, the book brings to us the delectable combo of dogs and reading, with a fresh new setting of the retirement community.
Madeline is a joy this time around as well. I love how this young girl has so much of empathy and sincerity in her actions. She also doesn’t shy away from talking to adults about her concerns and heeding their advice – a lesson all little children ought to remember.
Through Star’s tests, we also get to see how stringently dogs are tested before they can work as therapy dogs. It was nice to see his momma Bonnie be there to encourage him.
This book too offers several practical life lessons, including the important one of having patience with others. I love how both the second and the third books indicate simple and practical ways by which even a child can make a difference in their local community. All that you need is time, love, and willingness.
The page layout is perfect this time as well. I love how balance the stories always are between the artwork and the text, never letting any page feel cluttered.
What new things can I say about the illustrations! I think it helps when picture book authors are illustrators too, because they know exactly what they want to convey through the text and incorporate that mood in the graphics.
The audiobook, clocking at a little less than ten minutes, is narrated by Merissa Czyz. A different narrator this time, but the quality hasn’t reduced. Czyz does just as fine a job as Frutkin did with the first two books. To those who enjoy picture books on audio, this is a great option. I do miss the illustrations every time.
In short, recommended without a doubt! This lovely series will be perfect for little readers aged 4-8. Given the plotline, this book would work wonderfully at homes as well as in classrooms.
5 howls-of-happiness stars!
This was again a library read for the audio version, with some cheating by opting for the lovely Youtube version read by ‘Storytime With Lorelei’ so that I could look at the graphics.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I follow the Goodreads rating policy:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Lifelong favourite!
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - I loved the book.
⭐⭐⭐ - I liked the book.
⭐⭐ - I found the book average.
⭐ - I hated the book.
The decimals indicate the degree of the in-between feelings.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Facebook ||
December 12, 2025
I am coming close to the end with my reading adventure with Madeline and the dogs who have come in to her life. If anyone is looking for a good series that features the importance of animals in one’s life this is the one. It is also easy-to-read, and includes delightful outcomes that will please and teach children. With such a beautifully illustrated experience, it is easy to recommend this series highly.
The message of this book is about therapy dogs, which in all facets of life, play an important role. They not only provide unconditional love, reduce stress and improve people’s mental and physical health by being in their presence, they offer comfort for those in need.
I remember when my mother lived in her first assisted living home, we would visit her with our dogs (by permission of staff). It soon became clear how much they were also appreciated by the other residents. Even though they were not considered true ‘therapy’ dogs, the smiles and joy they brought to everyone was duly apparent. Therapy dogs have been known to be a catalyst for healing and support, especially for those suffering from loneliness.
In this book, readers will have the opportunity to see Madeline and her dog, Star helping people cope by visiting them. The scenes within the story are sweet, poignant and heart-felt. Kleenex may be necessary.
Age Level: 4 – 8 years+ - Reading Level: PreK – 3rd grade+
The message of this book is about therapy dogs, which in all facets of life, play an important role. They not only provide unconditional love, reduce stress and improve people’s mental and physical health by being in their presence, they offer comfort for those in need.
I remember when my mother lived in her first assisted living home, we would visit her with our dogs (by permission of staff). It soon became clear how much they were also appreciated by the other residents. Even though they were not considered true ‘therapy’ dogs, the smiles and joy they brought to everyone was duly apparent. Therapy dogs have been known to be a catalyst for healing and support, especially for those suffering from loneliness.
In this book, readers will have the opportunity to see Madeline and her dog, Star helping people cope by visiting them. The scenes within the story are sweet, poignant and heart-felt. Kleenex may be necessary.
Age Level: 4 – 8 years+ - Reading Level: PreK – 3rd grade+
August 3, 2020
It’s Star’s birthday when her mother asks Madeline if Star is ready for his test. Star has been practicing. Practicing meeting people, sitting still as a bike goes by, meeting other dogs, too. Madeline knows that he’s going to make the best therapy dog ever.
The next day Madeline, her mother and Star go to the Retirement Village for his test. She reminds Star that it’s his job to make people smile. Mr. Finch is there with a clipboard to make sure that Star will be a good therapy dog.
She and her mom together walk Star around the room, stopping when Mr. Finch says, “Stop please” and walking again when he says, “proceed.” Madeline reinforces him with “Good job, Star.” When Mr. Finch crouches down in front of him, and pets Star, he is calm. When a nurse walks by with a wheelchair, he is calm. The last test is for them to drop the leash and walk away, and for Star to stay… but instead he walks to a woman in a wheelchair, and gives her his paw.
On his second test, he visits with the residents, after more studying with Madeline all that week. Star visits with the residents, and everyone is happy, except for Mr. Humphrey, who sits in a wheelchair with his back to everyone.
For his third test, Madeline practices with Star for things she hopes will make Mr. Humphrey smile. When it’s time to go, she packs some books in her backpack, hoping she can break through to Mr. Humphrey. Once there, another test – cookies left on the floor, which Star leaves alone. But Madeline won’t be happy until she can make Mr. Humphrey smile, too.
Loved this story, an ode to books and dogs, and reaching out to others who need a friend to help them smile again.
Pub Date: 01 Sep 2020
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Publisher Spotlight / Peachtree Publishing Company
#MadelineFinnandtheTherapyDog #NetGalley
The next day Madeline, her mother and Star go to the Retirement Village for his test. She reminds Star that it’s his job to make people smile. Mr. Finch is there with a clipboard to make sure that Star will be a good therapy dog.
She and her mom together walk Star around the room, stopping when Mr. Finch says, “Stop please” and walking again when he says, “proceed.” Madeline reinforces him with “Good job, Star.” When Mr. Finch crouches down in front of him, and pets Star, he is calm. When a nurse walks by with a wheelchair, he is calm. The last test is for them to drop the leash and walk away, and for Star to stay… but instead he walks to a woman in a wheelchair, and gives her his paw.
On his second test, he visits with the residents, after more studying with Madeline all that week. Star visits with the residents, and everyone is happy, except for Mr. Humphrey, who sits in a wheelchair with his back to everyone.
For his third test, Madeline practices with Star for things she hopes will make Mr. Humphrey smile. When it’s time to go, she packs some books in her backpack, hoping she can break through to Mr. Humphrey. Once there, another test – cookies left on the floor, which Star leaves alone. But Madeline won’t be happy until she can make Mr. Humphrey smile, too.
Loved this story, an ode to books and dogs, and reaching out to others who need a friend to help them smile again.
Pub Date: 01 Sep 2020
Many thanks for the ARC provided by Publisher Spotlight / Peachtree Publishing Company
#MadelineFinnandtheTherapyDog #NetGalley
July 29, 2020
What do therapy dogs do? How do you train them? With charming text and illustrations, we follow Madeline and her dog Star through the process. Made me want to trade places with Madeline and do good work with a beloved pet. A delightful book #3 in the series featuring this dynamic duo.
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 01 Sep 2020
Thanks to the author, Publisher Spotlight, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#MadelineFinnandtheTherapyDog #NetGalley
5 of 5 Stars
Pub Date 01 Sep 2020
Thanks to the author, Publisher Spotlight, and NetGalley for the review copy. Opinions are mine.
#MadelineFinnandtheTherapyDog #NetGalley
July 20, 2020
I absolutely love the illustrations in these books! Madeline Finn and the dogs are so adorable. I come away from reading wanting a dog of my own to hug.
In this book, Star (the dog) is old enough to become a therapy dog. So Madeline Finn and her mother take Star to Walker Oaks, a retirement community, to take the requisite tests. Star does well... but Madeline Finn notices an old man who seems to need a bit of love. Will she and Star be able to break through his defences?
This is a lovely story with strong writing and gorgeous illustrations. I noticed one missing quotation mark, but as this is an ARC, hopefully that will be sorted out in the final version. Other than that, I really enjoyed this one. Readers who fell in love with Madeline Finn in her previous books will probably find plenty to love here as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Publishing Company for providing a digital ARC.
In this book, Star (the dog) is old enough to become a therapy dog. So Madeline Finn and her mother take Star to Walker Oaks, a retirement community, to take the requisite tests. Star does well... but Madeline Finn notices an old man who seems to need a bit of love. Will she and Star be able to break through his defences?
This is a lovely story with strong writing and gorgeous illustrations. I noticed one missing quotation mark, but as this is an ARC, hopefully that will be sorted out in the final version. Other than that, I really enjoyed this one. Readers who fell in love with Madeline Finn in her previous books will probably find plenty to love here as well.
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Publishing Company for providing a digital ARC.
November 27, 2025
I got all choked up! This sweet book moved me to tears. It's not sad, it's lovely, I'm just mush for the kindness of children, old souls, and gentle, chin-resting dogs. I have a chin-rester who melts my heart. When he was a wee pup-squeak he visited my dearest friend at her assisted living home. She was over 100 at the time. She's gone now and I'm still getting used to missing her.
(This book is about a dog who is training to be a therapy dog at a retirement community.)
..
Whew. Now that I've got my bearings again..
I love a good, for-all-ages picture book. Some, like this one, are vessels of empathy right in your hands.
My goodreads friend Stephen put the Madeline Finn dog books on my radar. I was hoping to get Madeline Finn and the Blessing of the Animals, but my library had this one handy today. Turns out it's book #3 and I think it would be optimal to read them in order. There is backstory mentioned that I assume is from Madeline Finn and the Library Dog. But it stands well on its own, too.
(This book is about a dog who is training to be a therapy dog at a retirement community.)
..
Whew. Now that I've got my bearings again..
I love a good, for-all-ages picture book. Some, like this one, are vessels of empathy right in your hands.
My goodreads friend Stephen put the Madeline Finn dog books on my radar. I was hoping to get Madeline Finn and the Blessing of the Animals, but my library had this one handy today. Turns out it's book #3 and I think it would be optimal to read them in order. There is backstory mentioned that I assume is from Madeline Finn and the Library Dog. But it stands well on its own, too.
September 5, 2020
Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog is a great way to introduce therapy animals to children!
This is the perfect picture book to introduce one great resource for mental and physical health. It's got incredible illustrations and a wonderful story to share with children. Watching Star go help people was absolutely beautiful and made me tear up a bit. It's such an important story to share!
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Publishing Company for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
This is the perfect picture book to introduce one great resource for mental and physical health. It's got incredible illustrations and a wonderful story to share with children. Watching Star go help people was absolutely beautiful and made me tear up a bit. It's such an important story to share!
Four out of five stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Publishing Company for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange of an honest review.
October 24, 2021
Madeline Finn's adopted puppy has been working hard. Star has practiced meeting people, sitting still as bikes go by, resisting the temptation to snatch snacks, and even meeting other dogs. A therapy dog must be able to do a lot of things. Star and Madeline soon discover that a great therapy dog, just like a great friend, must simply have the patience to accept someone for exactly who they are.
July 8, 2021
Madli-Liisi seiklused koertega on alati olnud südant soojendavad ja nii ka sel korral.
Lugu teraapiakoeraks saamisest on mõnusalt õpetlik kõigile lastele, kes mõtlevad koera omanikuks olemise peale näidates nii selle taga olevat tööd kui ka rõõmu.
Lugu teraapiakoeraks saamisest on mõnusalt õpetlik kõigile lastele, kes mõtlevad koera omanikuks olemise peale näidates nii selle taga olevat tööd kui ka rõõmu.
June 15, 2023
Absolutely cried in the library reading this out loud to Elika because I am eMoTiOnAL.
January 15, 2021
This is the third Madeline Finn book we have read and we love them all. Madeline's dog Star is old enough to train as a therapy dog. They have to pass some tests to be certified so off they go to the local retirement home to see if Star is able to become certified. This is a great book for children to learn about many things. First thing is about therapy dogs. There are so many different therapy dog now, that this is a great thing to find out about. In this case it is a dog to visit in old age, retirement and care homes. Star is great at this, especially being so large and fluffy. The second thing is about care and friendship with older people. Madeline notices a man who is not happy and instead of moving on and ignoring him, she tries to cheer him up and find out what is wrong and how she can help. Of course, Star does what she is supposed to do, but this is a great learning point. We love the amazing illustrations that accompany this story. They add a lot to the understanding of what is going on. I definitely recommend this book to schools, classrooms, public libraries and families. My grandson was quite interested in the retirement home and why the people were there. We talked about how they couldn't live alone anymore or have a pet, but that visiting therapy animals make them so happy. He decided that he would take care of me if I couldn't live by myself anymore. The innocence of youth. I was gifted a copy of this book upon request. The rating and opinions shared are my own.
October 13, 2020
Not only does this delightful children's book capture the magic a therapy dog can bring to the people he visits, the story also makes it clear that becoming a therapy dog takes practice. I especially love how the child Madeline Finn is the handler learning how to train her dog.
On Star's first birthday, Madeline Finn recalls how she and Star have been learning to greet people, ignore distractions, and remain neutral around other dogs. They're ready for the three test visits to a local retirement home.
During those three test visits, Madeline Finn identifies skills that she and Star could improve upon. She really wants her dog to pass the therapy dog test, and this book demonstrates how consistent training pays off.
The illustrations are beautiful. Soft pastels and neutral palettes highlight Star's white fluffiness. Madeline Finn carries her comfort bunny everywhere and wears the cutest little leggings that may or may not match her jumper, but who cares because she's so darn cute.
Looking forward to more adventures with Madeline Finn and Star! Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Publishing Company for providing a digital copy of this book to me. I will be purchasing a physical copy of this book for my collection.
On Star's first birthday, Madeline Finn recalls how she and Star have been learning to greet people, ignore distractions, and remain neutral around other dogs. They're ready for the three test visits to a local retirement home.
During those three test visits, Madeline Finn identifies skills that she and Star could improve upon. She really wants her dog to pass the therapy dog test, and this book demonstrates how consistent training pays off.
The illustrations are beautiful. Soft pastels and neutral palettes highlight Star's white fluffiness. Madeline Finn carries her comfort bunny everywhere and wears the cutest little leggings that may or may not match her jumper, but who cares because she's so darn cute.
Looking forward to more adventures with Madeline Finn and Star! Thank you to NetGalley and Peachtree Publishing Company for providing a digital copy of this book to me. I will be purchasing a physical copy of this book for my collection.
August 13, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
What an adorable story! I really like the illustrations. This is a great picture book for any kid who likes animals. And I like that the setting is a retirement home.
What an adorable story! I really like the illustrations. This is a great picture book for any kid who likes animals. And I like that the setting is a retirement home.
Read
June 7, 2020This is a sure bet for dog lovers everywhere. Super cute and a great addition to this sweet series.
June 14, 2021
This review was originally written for The Baby Bookworm. Visit us for new picture books reviews daily!
Hello, friends! Our book today is Madeline Finn and the Therapy Dog by Lisa W. Papp, third in the author’s sweet series on therapy dogs.
Readers once again join the timid yet kindhearted Madeline Finn and her young dog, Star (offspring of Bonnie, the titular library dog from the series’s first installment). Madeline has been training Star to be a therapy dog as well, and his final three tests are to take place at a retirement home, comforting the residents and showing the good canine manners he’s learned. While Madeline and Star’s efforts during the tests show promise, Madeline is troubled by one resident, Mr. Humphrey, who remains silent and withdrawn during their visits. After brainstorming ways to connect with the man – as well as conferring with her mother and Bonnie’s owner, Mrs. Dimple – Madeline decides on patience and kindness as her approach… with heartwarming results.
Lovely. Papp’s gentle story and soft illustrations fit in perfectly with the rest of her series, both an informative introduction to the training and value of therapy dogs, as well as a look at the merits of patience when overcoming a challenge. Newcomers to Madeline’s story may not understand some of the references to previous books, but these are quick moments that don’t distract from the main narrative, and that fans of the series will deeply appreciate (Madeline reading aloud to Mr. Humphrey is especially touching). Madeline, Star, and Bonnie are irresistibly cute in their illustrations, and the elderly residents are rightly humanized, if a little soft-focused to feel realistic (there is a distinct lack of wrinkles, age spots, or other physical signifiers of old age other than some white hair and wheelchairs). The story is a little longer, but worth the read, especially for patient readers; JJ loved the gentle pace and sweet artwork. A lovely continuation of a heartfelt series, and it’s Baby Bookworm approved!
(Note: A copy of this book was provided to The Baby Bookworm by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.)
Be sure to check out The Baby Bookworm for more reviews!
May 30, 2020
Following up on the success of her two previous picture books featuring Madeline Finn, the author follow her as she works with her beloved dog, Star, in hopes that Star could work as a therapy dog. When he is tested at a retirement home, Madeline worries that he didn't always follow commands, but he does well overall. During his second test, he is friendly around the residents, and almost all of them respond positively to his presence. But one elderly man, Mr. Humphrey, ignores the dog, which troubles Madeline. When she is reminded that some things and some people need more time than others, she decides to read him a story. Reminded of his own wife's love for books even while Star has moved closer to Mr. Humphrey, the man responds positively to Madeline. It's clear that the two of them-Star and Madeline--make a team that is hard to resist and that they've touched the lonely old man's heart and summoned some powerful memories. The illustrations, created with pencil, watercolors, and digital coloring, are luminous and show the gentle ways of Star and Madeline. Having the story told from Madeline's perspective lends an innocent hopefulness to the text. Not only is Madeline able to give back to her community, but she also is able to reflect on her own earlier struggles with reading.
August 29, 2020
Sweet Story about Becoming a Therapy Dog
Young Madeline Finn wants her dog, Star, to be a therapy dog. Before the book starts, she has already done some training with the dog, and the book is about how he has to go through 3 tests at the retirement home before he can become a certified therapy dog. The illustrations managed to be both realistic and endearing. In particular, the little girl and her dog are super cute. While Star mostly does well, there is one man at the retirement home whom neither Madeline nor Star can seem to get through to. This teaches young Madeline a lesson about patience and accepting people for who they are. It was a sweet scene with Madeline, Star, and Mr. Humphrey when he finally warmed to them. That perhaps the book ended a little abruptly, but the story is sweet and has several good messages.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
Young Madeline Finn wants her dog, Star, to be a therapy dog. Before the book starts, she has already done some training with the dog, and the book is about how he has to go through 3 tests at the retirement home before he can become a certified therapy dog. The illustrations managed to be both realistic and endearing. In particular, the little girl and her dog are super cute. While Star mostly does well, there is one man at the retirement home whom neither Madeline nor Star can seem to get through to. This teaches young Madeline a lesson about patience and accepting people for who they are. It was a sweet scene with Madeline, Star, and Mr. Humphrey when he finally warmed to them. That perhaps the book ended a little abruptly, but the story is sweet and has several good messages.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
July 20, 2020
[I received an electronic review copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.]
This whole series is spectacular. The illustrations make everything look sweet and hug-able. As with the first two books in the series, reading plays a role in the story along with Madeline and the dogs. I don't know that I could read this one out loud because I got choked up on nearly every page. Madeline is her usual sweet self, eager to see Star succeed in his training and eager to help out the residents at the retirement home. She's appropriately coached by the adults in her life, while still letting her be the star of the story and letting her make choices and figure things out. This series is always at the top of my picture book list. Don't miss the latest addition.
This whole series is spectacular. The illustrations make everything look sweet and hug-able. As with the first two books in the series, reading plays a role in the story along with Madeline and the dogs. I don't know that I could read this one out loud because I got choked up on nearly every page. Madeline is her usual sweet self, eager to see Star succeed in his training and eager to help out the residents at the retirement home. She's appropriately coached by the adults in her life, while still letting her be the star of the story and letting her make choices and figure things out. This series is always at the top of my picture book list. Don't miss the latest addition.
April 25, 2021
This is the third installment of Lisa Papp’s Madeline Finn series, and this one is my favorite so far. Madeline Finn is a true dog lover, from Bonnie, the therapy dog at the public library who helped her learn to read, to this story of Star, Bonnie’s puppy who Madeline adopted. Star has trained to be a therapy dog and this book is about the three tests he must pass at a retirement center.
I love Madeline Finn and her dogs. This book has an especially sweet message about being patient with people, accepting them for who they are, and being there waiting for when they are ready to interact. A must-have for elementary school libraries and a perfect gift when looking for picture books for kids. I will be very disappointed if this one is not on our state reading award list!
I love Madeline Finn and her dogs. This book has an especially sweet message about being patient with people, accepting them for who they are, and being there waiting for when they are ready to interact. A must-have for elementary school libraries and a perfect gift when looking for picture books for kids. I will be very disappointed if this one is not on our state reading award list!
June 6, 2020
A charming book about a dog owner and her dog who is trying to become a therapy dog. In a very straightforward manner the story takes the reader through the tests with the relevant tasks that most be completed by therapy dogs. There is plenty of room for additional discussion between a reader and child audience which is wonderful, such as 'why is it important for a dog not to chase a wheelchair.' Adding to the charm is the artwork which is very sweet and soft. There is much to learn for owner Madeline Finn and her dog Star as well as for the child experiencing this sweet book.
September 2, 2020
Have a box of tissues ready if you plan on reading this. Madeline Finn and her dog, Star, must pass three tests for Star to become a therapy dog. And while most people take to Star (and him to them) there is one person that seems to be immune to Star's charms. But Madeline Finn knows what to do. Just like someone once did for her, she knows she must be patient. While a bit sentimental for my personal tastes, it is a lovely book that most people will enjoy (even if you are not a dog fan or in need of a therapy dog).
May 6, 2020
Every book in this series is sweeter than the last. In this story about Madeline Finn she is training her dog, Star to be a therapy dog. It is a wonderful combination of a story full of heart, fascinating introduction to how to become a therapy dog, and trying again when things don't work at first. If you love a good quiet story about dogs, kindness, and persevering then this is for you. I for one am incredibly grateful for more Madeline Finn in my life.
July 31, 2020
Meet Madeline, an eager and inspirational girl, who is eager help her dog Star pass his assessments to be a therapy animal. Filled with patience, love, and a story seldom heard in children's books, discover if Star will join this group of service animals. Illustrations are light and airy, which makes reading and discussing aging in an approachable way for kids. You may need to bring your box of tissues too! Madeline is a great role model for modern kids!
August 15, 2020
This is an adorable story! The graphics go perfectly well with it. This tale of how a puppy is trained to help others-physically and mentally from a child’s perspective is engrossing as well as informative. Great story to read at storytime, especially if a therapy dog comes to visit. Parents will enjoy reading this as well.
This book deserves to be on everyone’s bookshelf!
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
This book deserves to be on everyone’s bookshelf!
I received an advanced reader copy from NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
August 19, 2020
Madeline Finn helps her dog, Star, train and practice important skills in hopes of becoming a therapy dog. Star meets a special friend at Walker Oaks named Mr. Humphrey and Star encounters new challenges. Will he pass his test to become a therapy dog?
Madeline Finn once again teaches us the importance of empathy, patience, and perseverance in this touching story and we get a visit from our old friend Bonnie as well.
Madeline Finn once again teaches us the importance of empathy, patience, and perseverance in this touching story and we get a visit from our old friend Bonnie as well.
August 26, 2020
I received this e-book from NetGalley.
Madeline Finn is back with another picture book featuring her dog Star. Star is preparing to become a therapy dog and after a couple of visits to the local retirement home, Madeline Finn learns more about herself, too. This book is so pretty and I know my elementary students enjoy any book about dogs. I am hopeful they are learning the lessons Papp presents.
Madeline Finn is back with another picture book featuring her dog Star. Star is preparing to become a therapy dog and after a couple of visits to the local retirement home, Madeline Finn learns more about herself, too. This book is so pretty and I know my elementary students enjoy any book about dogs. I am hopeful they are learning the lessons Papp presents.
July 20, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an electronic copy to read and review.
This is a sweet story about a little girl who is training her dog, Star, to be a therapy dog. We get to see how Star behaves and what he does for residents of a nursing home. I would love to bring this into a classroom when we talk about dogs with jobs.
This is a sweet story about a little girl who is training her dog, Star, to be a therapy dog. We get to see how Star behaves and what he does for residents of a nursing home. I would love to bring this into a classroom when we talk about dogs with jobs.
August 27, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Publisher Spotlight, Peachtree Publishing Company for a free digital copy.
Madeline is training Star the dog to become a therapy dog and they go into a retirement home to complete the three tests they need for Star to be certified. The illustrations are beautiful and the story is very sweet about Star and Madeline warming the heart of a lonely old man.
Madeline is training Star the dog to become a therapy dog and they go into a retirement home to complete the three tests they need for Star to be certified. The illustrations are beautiful and the story is very sweet about Star and Madeline warming the heart of a lonely old man.
November 24, 2020
I read this book with my young daughter so that we could learn more about therapy dogs. The story was well thought out and paced well. The illustrations helped tell the story of a girl who was in the process of training a therapy dog. This is a good book for ages 4-8.
Thank you Net Galley for the opportunity to review this book for my honest opinion.
Thank you Net Galley for the opportunity to review this book for my honest opinion.
July 22, 2020
I loved Madeline Finn and the Library Dog (as goofy as the ending may have been), but this book make me tear up. Realistic re: the therapy dog testing process, and a sweet story for all. Lovely art as well.
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