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Secondhand Dogs
Miss Lottie’s home was for second chances.
When she adopted Gus, Roo, Tank, and Moon Pie, Miss Lottie rescued each member of the pack—including herself, her helper, Quinn, and her reclusive cat, Ghost—and turned them into a family. But when a new dog, Decker, arrives and tries to hoard Miss Lottie’s heart and home for himself, the pack’s future is threatened.
At first, Gus, the insecure pack leader, only notices little things, like tiny Moon Pie being kicked out of the bed and Ghost acting spooked (then again…Ghost is a cat). But things soon go from bad to worse as Decker’s presence causes disharmony in the group.
When Decker convinces Moon Pie to embark on an impossible journey, it’s up to Gus to gather his courage, rally his splintered pack, and bring Moon Pie home. And with coyotes and cars on the loose, the pack must push through obstacles and dangers to reunite with Moon Pie before he can get hurt—or nearly as bad, get his heart broken.
When she adopted Gus, Roo, Tank, and Moon Pie, Miss Lottie rescued each member of the pack—including herself, her helper, Quinn, and her reclusive cat, Ghost—and turned them into a family. But when a new dog, Decker, arrives and tries to hoard Miss Lottie’s heart and home for himself, the pack’s future is threatened.
At first, Gus, the insecure pack leader, only notices little things, like tiny Moon Pie being kicked out of the bed and Ghost acting spooked (then again…Ghost is a cat). But things soon go from bad to worse as Decker’s presence causes disharmony in the group.
When Decker convinces Moon Pie to embark on an impossible journey, it’s up to Gus to gather his courage, rally his splintered pack, and bring Moon Pie home. And with coyotes and cars on the loose, the pack must push through obstacles and dangers to reunite with Moon Pie before he can get hurt—or nearly as bad, get his heart broken.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published July 6, 2021
31 people are currently reading
2679 people want to read
About the author
Carolyn Crimi
45 books84 followersCarolyn Crimi, AKA the Pirate Queen, is the author of numerous books for young readers, including BORIS AND BELLA, illustrated by Gris Grimly. Of HENRY AND THE BUCCANEER BUNNIES, she says, "While I don't have long floppy ears or a pro-nounced overbite, Henry and I are kindred spirits, who love books and carrots!"
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
August 25, 2021
First sentence: Gus lifted his head and sniffed the chilly November air. The smell of dead leaves wafted through the windows and into the cramped kitchen. Someone a few houses down had a fire burning in their fireplace and that smell, too, curled its way inside.
Premise/plot: Miss Lottie rescues dog. Gus, one of our main narrators, was her first rescue and is the leader of the pack. Through the years, the pack has expanded. Miss Lottie has a LOT of love in her heart. When the novel opens, the pack includes: Gus, Tank, Roo, and Moon Pie. But a new member has come into the house--for better and worse--and not every one in the pack thinks it's a good fit or match. Decker, well, Decker doesn't much appreciate any of the dogs--he wants to be the one and only dog--and he doesn't much appreciate Miss Lottie either--not for who she is and what she does.
The book chronicles their adventures and misadventures as they adjust to Decker's arrival...
My thoughts: Secondhand Dogs reminds me of some of Patricia MacLachlan's animal stories...and then, of course, there's Kate DiCamillo. I really loved everything about this book. The writing. The characters. The alternating characters. The story. The premise--the idea of each dog being born with a special, unique gift. The emotional depth of both the animal and human characters. The ending. This one was just a treat of a book. I highly recommend.
Would I have read this book as a child? That's a good question--though not particularly relevant, perhaps. But I bring it up because as a kid I was a super-super sensitive reader. I was hesitant/reluctant to read ANY book with a dog on the cover. Would the dog make it through the book? Would the dog die? Would it get run over? Would it get sick or be poisoned? Was it an older dog who might die naturally? I just didn't have any trust in authors who books with dogs on the cover. NO DOGS die in Secondhand Dogs. So you can breathe easy there. But it is an emotional book with a few intense scenes. Quinn, a human boy, works for Miss Lottie, and his home situation is ROUGH. (He's being BULLIED). This might be a trigger for some. But no dogs die during the book. (I believe there is brief mention of a former dog who had died long, long, long before this novel starts.)
Premise/plot: Miss Lottie rescues dog. Gus, one of our main narrators, was her first rescue and is the leader of the pack. Through the years, the pack has expanded. Miss Lottie has a LOT of love in her heart. When the novel opens, the pack includes: Gus, Tank, Roo, and Moon Pie. But a new member has come into the house--for better and worse--and not every one in the pack thinks it's a good fit or match. Decker, well, Decker doesn't much appreciate any of the dogs--he wants to be the one and only dog--and he doesn't much appreciate Miss Lottie either--not for who she is and what she does.
The book chronicles their adventures and misadventures as they adjust to Decker's arrival...
My thoughts: Secondhand Dogs reminds me of some of Patricia MacLachlan's animal stories...and then, of course, there's Kate DiCamillo. I really loved everything about this book. The writing. The characters. The alternating characters. The story. The premise--the idea of each dog being born with a special, unique gift. The emotional depth of both the animal and human characters. The ending. This one was just a treat of a book. I highly recommend.
Would I have read this book as a child? That's a good question--though not particularly relevant, perhaps. But I bring it up because as a kid I was a super-super sensitive reader. I was hesitant/reluctant to read ANY book with a dog on the cover. Would the dog make it through the book? Would the dog die? Would it get run over? Would it get sick or be poisoned? Was it an older dog who might die naturally? I just didn't have any trust in authors who books with dogs on the cover. NO DOGS die in Secondhand Dogs. So you can breathe easy there. But it is an emotional book with a few intense scenes. Quinn, a human boy, works for Miss Lottie, and his home situation is ROUGH. (He's being BULLIED). This might be a trigger for some. But no dogs die during the book. (I believe there is brief mention of a former dog who had died long, long, long before this novel starts.)
February 3, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this book in exchange for an honest review.
The cover of this book immediately drew me in and I knew it would be a good book. Yes, I judged it by the cover. I'm a sucker for rescue dogs. This story is cute and each of the dogs have their own characteristics. The adventures are somewhat suspenseful as the pack tries to work out its problems.
The cover of this book immediately drew me in and I knew it would be a good book. Yes, I judged it by the cover. I'm a sucker for rescue dogs. This story is cute and each of the dogs have their own characteristics. The adventures are somewhat suspenseful as the pack tries to work out its problems.
July 26, 2021
Secondhand Dogs is a sweet, heartwarming story about second chances and finding and protecting your pack — whether human or animal. Addressing serious issues like bullying and hurt cycles, this book is often poignant in its insights. If you love dog stories and stories full of heart that might make you shed a tear, this is one to read.
Read my full review on my blog.
Read my full review on my blog.
October 27, 2022
Gus is the leader of the pack in Mrs. Lottie's house. Just like the other dogs Roo, Tank and Moonie, they were adopted by the old lady and were taken care of with a lot of love and kindness. Quinn, a sweet boy that helped Mrs. Lottie, also understood them very well!
Everything was in perfect order, until Decker, a new rescued dog arrives and changes the whole situation for the pack, especially Gus.
This story was such a sweet surprise! I am always looking forward to reading books about adopted pets and this one was quite special!
There were so many feelings involved, so many awful real situations that happen with pets that are mentioned in this book, that I must say I cried at the end... Definitely an amazing, lovely, simple story to be shared with kids ❤
Everything was in perfect order, until Decker, a new rescued dog arrives and changes the whole situation for the pack, especially Gus.
This story was such a sweet surprise! I am always looking forward to reading books about adopted pets and this one was quite special!
There were so many feelings involved, so many awful real situations that happen with pets that are mentioned in this book, that I must say I cried at the end... Definitely an amazing, lovely, simple story to be shared with kids ❤
June 11, 2021
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for access to this ARC. I have a feeling this will be a big hit in my 5th grade classroom. Secondhand Dogs has cute illustrations, short chapters, adorable pets, and suspense. Each dog has a distinct personality. (The cat does too!) Miss Lottie and Quinn are lovable. The messages about being part of a pack and how to treat others are fairly universal. If I could change one thing, it would pertain to Quinn's brother, Jessie. His character was underdeveloped which caused his motives to seem cryptic.
September 26, 2023
This book was so cute and full of love ❤️ it is definitely a must read book! This amazing book is worth way more than 5 stars!!!! It was just brilliant and Beautiful. I especially loved finding out that Gus’s gift was love and kindness. Thank you so much for writing this book and it definitely deserved to be a sunshine State young readers book for this year. From Lucy Gonyer (a lover of reading)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 24, 2021
Hello hi I am crying so much
Want to read
February 9, 2023Highly recommended by a child at the library. "If I had to rate this out of 10, I would give it a 10!"
Grades 3-5.
Grades 3-5.
December 18, 2024
It was a great book; this is why I always choose dog books, they always have the excitement in them.
November 8, 2025
One of the best books I've ever read!!!
February 10, 2024
Read this with a 10yo and verdict was unanimous: Crimi gets the story, characters, and affective notes just right.
September 12, 2021
First, I must say: kids are going to love this book. Seriously. Go pick it up for the kid(s) in your life.
I always go hesitantly into dog books because, as I am sure it is with all of you, the emotions when it comes to animal books are on high alert! And please know that your emotions are going to be going on a roller coaster of emotions in this one!
The first emotion you are going to feel is love. As soon as you hear Gus’s voice, you know that he is a dog you can trust. Then as you meet each of the pack, they automatically go into your heart. Crimi does an amazing job telling the current narrative while also flashing back to show the dogs’ (and Miss Lottie’s, Quinn’s, and Ghost the cat’s) past. This allows you to jump into the story while also learning about how the pack gets together.
The next emotion you are going to feel is anger. Decker is a challenger to the pack. The way he manipulates and bullies, specifically Moon Pie, is devastating. It is true manipulation. You will definitely feel anger. Also, you learn more about Quinn’s life which will definitely make you feel angry.
Then comes the feelings of suspense, sadness, happiness, pride, and more! I can’t get more into the story because I don’t want to spoil! It is a good ride, I promise!
Full review with teaching tools: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=2...
I always go hesitantly into dog books because, as I am sure it is with all of you, the emotions when it comes to animal books are on high alert! And please know that your emotions are going to be going on a roller coaster of emotions in this one!
The first emotion you are going to feel is love. As soon as you hear Gus’s voice, you know that he is a dog you can trust. Then as you meet each of the pack, they automatically go into your heart. Crimi does an amazing job telling the current narrative while also flashing back to show the dogs’ (and Miss Lottie’s, Quinn’s, and Ghost the cat’s) past. This allows you to jump into the story while also learning about how the pack gets together.
The next emotion you are going to feel is anger. Decker is a challenger to the pack. The way he manipulates and bullies, specifically Moon Pie, is devastating. It is true manipulation. You will definitely feel anger. Also, you learn more about Quinn’s life which will definitely make you feel angry.
Then comes the feelings of suspense, sadness, happiness, pride, and more! I can’t get more into the story because I don’t want to spoil! It is a good ride, I promise!
Full review with teaching tools: http://www.unleashingreaders.com/?p=2...
October 2, 2022
I loved this book! I am a huge dog lover (ask my four dogs they'll tell you) so anytime I see a cute book with dogs involved I have to have it. This book was of course no exception.
I loved all of the characters in this book both human and dog. I felt like they all had very distinct personalities and voices which can be rare in a book with so many characters. I especially loved how the dogs personalities seemed to match with their breeds. I also loved the little back stories about the dogs and their "dog gifts".
I also really enjoyed one specific bit at the end. I don't want to spoil anything but it was such a sweet addition to this book and fixed the only thing I thought might be a problem.
I also wanted to gush about how adorable the illustration are! The dogs look so cute and so perfectly match their personalities! I wanted to just kiss and cuddle every dog in this book.
This is just a wonderful book for dog lovers. I give it two thumbs up and all the tail wags. My dogs and I all adored it and can't wait to get a copy to add to our ever growing shelf of dog books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for the early copy.
I loved all of the characters in this book both human and dog. I felt like they all had very distinct personalities and voices which can be rare in a book with so many characters. I especially loved how the dogs personalities seemed to match with their breeds. I also loved the little back stories about the dogs and their "dog gifts".
I also really enjoyed one specific bit at the end. I don't want to spoil anything but it was such a sweet addition to this book and fixed the only thing I thought might be a problem.
I also wanted to gush about how adorable the illustration are! The dogs look so cute and so perfectly match their personalities! I wanted to just kiss and cuddle every dog in this book.
This is just a wonderful book for dog lovers. I give it two thumbs up and all the tail wags. My dogs and I all adored it and can't wait to get a copy to add to our ever growing shelf of dog books.
Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Collins for the early copy.
March 3, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Secondhand Dogs is a delightful tale about family and love. Miss Lottie loves all the dogs she has rescued, although she is not terribly good at picking up on dog behavior. Gus is the leader of the pack, which is rounded out by Tank, Roo, and Moon Pie.
When Miss Lottie rescues a large shepherd mix, Gus gets a bad feeling. What happens in the book results in a search for Moon Pie by the dogs and Quinn, the neighbor boy who helps Miss Lottie with her dogs. There are some scary moments, but all works out well in the end for everyone.
This book is very suitable for middle school children and as an adult I enjoyed it very much myself! The illustrations depict all the characters well. Highly recommended for dog lovers!
Secondhand Dogs is a delightful tale about family and love. Miss Lottie loves all the dogs she has rescued, although she is not terribly good at picking up on dog behavior. Gus is the leader of the pack, which is rounded out by Tank, Roo, and Moon Pie.
When Miss Lottie rescues a large shepherd mix, Gus gets a bad feeling. What happens in the book results in a search for Moon Pie by the dogs and Quinn, the neighbor boy who helps Miss Lottie with her dogs. There are some scary moments, but all works out well in the end for everyone.
This book is very suitable for middle school children and as an adult I enjoyed it very much myself! The illustrations depict all the characters well. Highly recommended for dog lovers!
September 15, 2023
This was so lovely and it made me cry. I really liked how it was told from many different points of view. I listened to it as an audiobook and had mixed feelings about the narrator, but it was not bad over all.
The book had a good pace and the characters grew over the course of the novel. I am really glad it had an epilogue and it was a good epilogue, it made me feel really satisfied with the ending.
I feel kids could definitely enjoy the story.
The book had a good pace and the characters grew over the course of the novel. I am really glad it had an epilogue and it was a good epilogue, it made me feel really satisfied with the ending.
I feel kids could definitely enjoy the story.
June 25, 2021
Pawsitively delightful!
July 5, 2021
Meet Gus, a wise old terrier, Tank, a bulldog, three-legged Roo, and Moon Pie, a young pug. They are a collection of rescues that live with Miss Lottie. Each doggo has its own personality and its own designated dog bed, except Moon Pie who sleeps with Miss Lottie in her big, soft bed. Moon Pie had had a nice life eating popcorn and watching TV with Gertie, who unfortunately passed away. When she came to live with Miss Lottie a month ago, Gus, the leader of this pack of gentle dogs, thought it best to not yet to tell Moon Pie what happened to Gertie, and so Moonie thinks he will be returning to her when she comes back from vacation. Also living with Miss Lottie is Ghost, a cat who basically lives under a bed, and with whom Gus made a tenuous agreement to live and let live. To help out with her canine family, Miss Lottie hired Quinn, a young boy who had recently lost his dad and his dog, and who is now being bullied by his older brother's friends. Quinn loves nothing more than to escape to Miss Lottie's to care for the dogs he loves as much as she does.
Into this happy mix comes Decker, a shepherd/doberman mix. Gus is rightfully worried about this new addition, who just doesn't feel like he will fit into the pack. The very first night, Decker manages to get Moon Pie's spot on Miss Lottie's bed, but then begins to intimate the little guy. The next day, during their yard time, Tank, who is Moonie's self-appointed protector, has a showdown with Decker. Everyone is surprised when Decker bites his own paw and needs to go to the vet's. Tank is blamed for the bite and put into his kennel. Little by little, Decker erodes Gus as the leader of the pack, but it soon becomes clear that his goal is to get rid of all the other dogs.
When Decker learns that Gertie has passed away, he convinces Moon Pie that she is home and looking for him. Not only that, but Decker convinces Moonie to run away through a hole in the back fence. Angry that the other dogs had lied to him about Gertie and intimidated by Decker, Moonie escapes into the back alley when no one is paying attention. When Miss Lottie finally notices Moon Pie is gone, she calls Quinn to help look for him, but later Gus, Tank, and Roo decide to take matters into their own hands, escaping the same way Moonie did. None of them know where they are going, and must on Roo's excellent sense of smell to lead them. One scent they all pick up carries danger in it, but what can it be? Quinn is also worried, knowing his mother had lately spotted a coyote in the neighborhood. And Miss Lottie is beside her self with grief realizing all her beloved dogs are missing - except Decker, who is now calm and content to be an only dog. Decker has some hard lessons ahead of him about family, loyalty and love, but first, will all of Miss Lottie's doggos return home safe and sound? Or...?
Secondhand Dogs is an exciting novel for kids who like animal stories in general, and dog stories in particular and it is especially interesting because it is narrated mainly from the point of view of five dogs, one cat and two humans in alternating chapters. And along the way, there are chapters giving the back story of each character - canine and human, including Decker, whose traumatic past will definitely garner some sympathy for him. What's really nice about this dog's tale is that each canine has such a distinct personality. Gus is gentle and peace-loving, Roo is excitable and impulsive, Tank may be big and slow, but he's also a protector, and Moon Pie is just a popcorn-loving sweetie. It also wasn't lost on me that Quinn's story is an interesting parallel to Moon Pie's.
Secondhand Dogs is a satisfying story with some tension but few surprises. This is the kind of middle grade book that is just perfect book for some good summer reading.
Thank you to Barbara Fisch at Blue Slip Media for providing me with an ARC to read and review.
Into this happy mix comes Decker, a shepherd/doberman mix. Gus is rightfully worried about this new addition, who just doesn't feel like he will fit into the pack. The very first night, Decker manages to get Moon Pie's spot on Miss Lottie's bed, but then begins to intimate the little guy. The next day, during their yard time, Tank, who is Moonie's self-appointed protector, has a showdown with Decker. Everyone is surprised when Decker bites his own paw and needs to go to the vet's. Tank is blamed for the bite and put into his kennel. Little by little, Decker erodes Gus as the leader of the pack, but it soon becomes clear that his goal is to get rid of all the other dogs.
When Decker learns that Gertie has passed away, he convinces Moon Pie that she is home and looking for him. Not only that, but Decker convinces Moonie to run away through a hole in the back fence. Angry that the other dogs had lied to him about Gertie and intimidated by Decker, Moonie escapes into the back alley when no one is paying attention. When Miss Lottie finally notices Moon Pie is gone, she calls Quinn to help look for him, but later Gus, Tank, and Roo decide to take matters into their own hands, escaping the same way Moonie did. None of them know where they are going, and must on Roo's excellent sense of smell to lead them. One scent they all pick up carries danger in it, but what can it be? Quinn is also worried, knowing his mother had lately spotted a coyote in the neighborhood. And Miss Lottie is beside her self with grief realizing all her beloved dogs are missing - except Decker, who is now calm and content to be an only dog. Decker has some hard lessons ahead of him about family, loyalty and love, but first, will all of Miss Lottie's doggos return home safe and sound? Or...?
Secondhand Dogs is an exciting novel for kids who like animal stories in general, and dog stories in particular and it is especially interesting because it is narrated mainly from the point of view of five dogs, one cat and two humans in alternating chapters. And along the way, there are chapters giving the back story of each character - canine and human, including Decker, whose traumatic past will definitely garner some sympathy for him. What's really nice about this dog's tale is that each canine has such a distinct personality. Gus is gentle and peace-loving, Roo is excitable and impulsive, Tank may be big and slow, but he's also a protector, and Moon Pie is just a popcorn-loving sweetie. It also wasn't lost on me that Quinn's story is an interesting parallel to Moon Pie's.
Secondhand Dogs is a satisfying story with some tension but few surprises. This is the kind of middle grade book that is just perfect book for some good summer reading.
Thank you to Barbara Fisch at Blue Slip Media for providing me with an ARC to read and review.
June 4, 2021
We’re a family who believes in “secondhand dogs”. We’re on greyhound number three! The first two were former race dogs and our latest would have been one too, if she’d thought it was a good idea. She didn’t! She’s a girl who knows her mind. 😉 We couldn’t love them more, and it’s an added bonus to know we gave them a loving home, when they needed one.
I thought a lot about our three, as I read SECONDHAND DOGS. After her husband died, Miss Lottie was searching for a purpose in her life. Her friends suggested a hobby, but her clay pots were bumpy, her knitting lumpy and her painting splotchy. Then she spied Gus, her first secondhand dog, and she found what she was needing - FAMILY. Her family soon grew to include four dogs in need of homes. She finds Quinn (a new boy to the neighborhood who is missing his dad, dealing with bullies and also needing a place that feels like home) to help her and who loves the dogs as much as she does. All is well until a new dog joins the family.
Carolyn Crimi has created a heart warming story about a loving family and Melissa Manwill’s illustrations bring every member of the pack to life. I loved how we get to know about each character’s life, both before joining the family and after, through their own thoughts and words. Your heart will go out to each one, even “bad dog” Decker, especially when you learn their before stories. This family, where each one has a special gift, truly rescues each other.
This makes a great family read aloud or one for your middle grader (grade 3+) to curl up with on a lazy summer day. You’ll want to preorder it now so you can meet Miss Lottie’s family on release day, July 6th.
Thanks so much to @blue_slip_media for sharing the review copy.
I thought a lot about our three, as I read SECONDHAND DOGS. After her husband died, Miss Lottie was searching for a purpose in her life. Her friends suggested a hobby, but her clay pots were bumpy, her knitting lumpy and her painting splotchy. Then she spied Gus, her first secondhand dog, and she found what she was needing - FAMILY. Her family soon grew to include four dogs in need of homes. She finds Quinn (a new boy to the neighborhood who is missing his dad, dealing with bullies and also needing a place that feels like home) to help her and who loves the dogs as much as she does. All is well until a new dog joins the family.
Carolyn Crimi has created a heart warming story about a loving family and Melissa Manwill’s illustrations bring every member of the pack to life. I loved how we get to know about each character’s life, both before joining the family and after, through their own thoughts and words. Your heart will go out to each one, even “bad dog” Decker, especially when you learn their before stories. This family, where each one has a special gift, truly rescues each other.
This makes a great family read aloud or one for your middle grader (grade 3+) to curl up with on a lazy summer day. You’ll want to preorder it now so you can meet Miss Lottie’s family on release day, July 6th.
Thanks so much to @blue_slip_media for sharing the review copy.
July 19, 2021
This tender story of love and family revolves around a group of dogs who've come from difficult backgrounds who have found a loving home with Miss Lottie. As the story moves forward, there are flashbacks that reveal the circumstances that have led to each dog's behavior and feelings. Gus, a terrier, was the first to be adopted by Miss Lottie which makes him the alpha dog, but his gentle, indecisive nature makes it stressful to lead. Roo, a three-legged hunting dog, radiates anxiety and frustration with Gus's uncertainty. Tank, the protective bulldog, who lost his home because of a misunderstanding feels strongly about protecting his new pack, especially young Moon Pie. Moon Pie, a young pug, provides the youth and naivety of the group.
And then there is Quinn, the boy who comes over to help Miss Lottie take care of the dogs. His once close relationship with his brother has fallen apart and now his brother's friends bully him without interference from his brother. He finds solace in helping with the dogs.
When Miss Lottie adopts a new dog, a mixed breed named Decker, it changes everything. Not only is Decker not friendly, he's downright rude and manipulative. His abusive background has left him unwilling to share or get along with the other dogs. Gus instinctively knows something isn't right about this new dog, but his lack of trust in his own judgment leaves the pack in limbo and vulnerable to Decker's manipulations. Things come to a head when Decker convinces Moon Pie to run away to find his previous owner who the others haven't told Moon Pie is dead. Chaos results as Gus and Tank leave to find Moon Pie and Roo decides to follow Decker. Can Gus pull his pack back together or is their pack doomed?
Young readers who love dog stories are bound to love this one. The dogs are lovable, even Decker is sympathetic, despite his awful behavior. Each dog is beautifully portrayed in all their strengths and weaknesses. The flashbacks provide information that helps the reader understand why each dog behaves the way it does without bogging down the story. It's impossible not to get attached to this ragtag family. I found myself quickly and easily invested in the story from the very beginning.
The human characters are also empathetic as they have their own struggles. Miss Lottie lost her husband and struggled with loneliness before meeting Gus. Quinn's lost his father and family dog, and his relationship with his brother has changed. He's also being bullied by his brother's friends.
The story begins quickly in the first chapter with the dogs preparing to meet Decker for the first time. The plot moves quickly and smoothly making for a compelling read. Overall, I highly recommend this story for young dog lovers who enjoy tender stories of family.
And then there is Quinn, the boy who comes over to help Miss Lottie take care of the dogs. His once close relationship with his brother has fallen apart and now his brother's friends bully him without interference from his brother. He finds solace in helping with the dogs.
When Miss Lottie adopts a new dog, a mixed breed named Decker, it changes everything. Not only is Decker not friendly, he's downright rude and manipulative. His abusive background has left him unwilling to share or get along with the other dogs. Gus instinctively knows something isn't right about this new dog, but his lack of trust in his own judgment leaves the pack in limbo and vulnerable to Decker's manipulations. Things come to a head when Decker convinces Moon Pie to run away to find his previous owner who the others haven't told Moon Pie is dead. Chaos results as Gus and Tank leave to find Moon Pie and Roo decides to follow Decker. Can Gus pull his pack back together or is their pack doomed?
Young readers who love dog stories are bound to love this one. The dogs are lovable, even Decker is sympathetic, despite his awful behavior. Each dog is beautifully portrayed in all their strengths and weaknesses. The flashbacks provide information that helps the reader understand why each dog behaves the way it does without bogging down the story. It's impossible not to get attached to this ragtag family. I found myself quickly and easily invested in the story from the very beginning.
The human characters are also empathetic as they have their own struggles. Miss Lottie lost her husband and struggled with loneliness before meeting Gus. Quinn's lost his father and family dog, and his relationship with his brother has changed. He's also being bullied by his brother's friends.
The story begins quickly in the first chapter with the dogs preparing to meet Decker for the first time. The plot moves quickly and smoothly making for a compelling read. Overall, I highly recommend this story for young dog lovers who enjoy tender stories of family.
June 10, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Miss Lottie has 4 “secondhand” (read rescue) dogs: Gus, the pack leader terrier; Tank, the bulldog; Roo, the 3-legged hound; and Moon Pie, the young pug. They all get along until Miss Lottie decides to add another dog, Decker, the German shepherd. Decker comes with a LOT of baggage and wants to be the only dog in the house so he schemes to get rid of the other dogs. He tricks Moon Pie into leaving, telling him that his previous owner is waiting for him, and soon the other dogs go in search of him. Quinn, the neighbor boy who recently lost his father and then his dog, helps Miss Lottie care for her pack. He feels guilty because Moon Pie escaped through a hidden hole in the garden fence and regrets not fixing it. Everyone, except Decker, is out looking for the little pug, encountering dangers along the way. Will the dogs make it home safely?
I love dog books, especially A Dog’s Purpose and Stella. This one initially drew me in but it never really clicked with me. I felt it could have moved along faster. Anyway, my rating is really a 3.5/5. I would still recommend it to young readers.
#SecondhandDogs #NetGalley
Miss Lottie has 4 “secondhand” (read rescue) dogs: Gus, the pack leader terrier; Tank, the bulldog; Roo, the 3-legged hound; and Moon Pie, the young pug. They all get along until Miss Lottie decides to add another dog, Decker, the German shepherd. Decker comes with a LOT of baggage and wants to be the only dog in the house so he schemes to get rid of the other dogs. He tricks Moon Pie into leaving, telling him that his previous owner is waiting for him, and soon the other dogs go in search of him. Quinn, the neighbor boy who recently lost his father and then his dog, helps Miss Lottie care for her pack. He feels guilty because Moon Pie escaped through a hidden hole in the garden fence and regrets not fixing it. Everyone, except Decker, is out looking for the little pug, encountering dangers along the way. Will the dogs make it home safely?
I love dog books, especially A Dog’s Purpose and Stella. This one initially drew me in but it never really clicked with me. I felt it could have moved along faster. Anyway, my rating is really a 3.5/5. I would still recommend it to young readers.
#SecondhandDogs #NetGalley
January 31, 2022
Gus, Roo, Tank, Moon Pie, and Ghost all live with Miss Lottie. They are pretty settled in - Gus is a bit timid but is the leader of the group; Roo the most nervous and easily sent into histronics, Tank is more mellow but the eldest, and Moon Pie is the cutest, youngest dog of the four. Gus made a pact with Ghost, the cat who lives in one of the rooms under the bed, and Miss Lottie takes care of all of them.
All of the animals are rescues, Gus found in a park but the other dogs coming from a local shelter. And today's a big day - Miss Lottie and her neighbor-helper boy, Quinn, are introducing the dogs to a new potential pack member, Decker.
Decker is everything the other dogs aren't - big and beautiful, decisive and cunning. And Gus is sure with Decker around, his days as pack leader aren't going to last.
This is a great book about bullying because both the pack of dogs and young Quinn are being bullied and the adults (in this case, Miss Lottie), don't realize it.
Good for middle aged readers with a couple of scary scenes.
All of the animals are rescues, Gus found in a park but the other dogs coming from a local shelter. And today's a big day - Miss Lottie and her neighbor-helper boy, Quinn, are introducing the dogs to a new potential pack member, Decker.
Decker is everything the other dogs aren't - big and beautiful, decisive and cunning. And Gus is sure with Decker around, his days as pack leader aren't going to last.
This is a great book about bullying because both the pack of dogs and young Quinn are being bullied and the adults (in this case, Miss Lottie), don't realize it.
Good for middle aged readers with a couple of scary scenes.
October 7, 2022
A middle grade book, but a really nice story for adults, too. All the dogs could talk, but it was explained in a sentence early on. Something like:
"Yeah, let's go talk to him!" Gus said in the dog language of barks, whines, tail wags, and ear shifts.
All the dogs talked like people from that point on, but that one sentence made it work fine for me.
The story followed a group of dogs adopted/rescued by an old woman (Miss Lottie). One day she brings home a Bad Dog (as in he wants to destroy the pack, not that he piddled on a rug), and the pack has to figure out how to deal with him.
While that was going on, there was a subplot about Quinn, a boy who helps Miss Lottie. He was dealing with a lot of stuff at home, as well as being bullied badly at school.
Though this was a simple, short book, the author really understood both dogs and kids. I really love that in the story each dog is born with a "Dog Gift" -- one thing in life they're especially good at doing. Anything from following scents, begging, or loving other dogs.
"Yeah, let's go talk to him!" Gus said in the dog language of barks, whines, tail wags, and ear shifts.
All the dogs talked like people from that point on, but that one sentence made it work fine for me.
The story followed a group of dogs adopted/rescued by an old woman (Miss Lottie). One day she brings home a Bad Dog (as in he wants to destroy the pack, not that he piddled on a rug), and the pack has to figure out how to deal with him.
While that was going on, there was a subplot about Quinn, a boy who helps Miss Lottie. He was dealing with a lot of stuff at home, as well as being bullied badly at school.
Though this was a simple, short book, the author really understood both dogs and kids. I really love that in the story each dog is born with a "Dog Gift" -- one thing in life they're especially good at doing. Anything from following scents, begging, or loving other dogs.
February 10, 2021
Reading this on a black and white kindle, I did not get to fully appreciate the fun illustrations.
This book is told both in alternating points of view and different references to time.
All was simple to follow and understand.
I say this book is appropriate from middle schoolers to adult readers who love dogs.
Miss Lottie loves her dogs. They are her family and her purpose for being.
Gus has been with her the longest and is the pack leader of the household. After Miss Lottie, of course.
This is not a house devoted to one breed or even one size of dog. If they need a home, Miss Lottie is willing to take a dog in.
She has help from a neighbor boy, Quinn.
Life has not been easy for him and he seems lonely.
This is a book about friendship and finding one's place and purpose.
It draws on the reader's emotions and relates to their own life experiences.
There are tense moments but all works out in the end.
I was very glad about the way sensitive topics were gently handled.
This book is told both in alternating points of view and different references to time.
All was simple to follow and understand.
I say this book is appropriate from middle schoolers to adult readers who love dogs.
Miss Lottie loves her dogs. They are her family and her purpose for being.
Gus has been with her the longest and is the pack leader of the household. After Miss Lottie, of course.
This is not a house devoted to one breed or even one size of dog. If they need a home, Miss Lottie is willing to take a dog in.
She has help from a neighbor boy, Quinn.
Life has not been easy for him and he seems lonely.
This is a book about friendship and finding one's place and purpose.
It draws on the reader's emotions and relates to their own life experiences.
There are tense moments but all works out in the end.
I was very glad about the way sensitive topics were gently handled.
April 8, 2021
Entirely appropriate for the age group of 8-12 year-olds, Secondhand Dogs by Carolyn Crimi is a very heartwarming story of a pack of dogs that has been adopted by an older woman (Miss Lottie) and her cat (Ghost). She is assisted by by a pre-teen boy named Quinn. The short chapters alternate between all the characters, human, feline, and canine, so we get a candid viewpoint from each. The story basically is a tale of bullying and the effects it can have on everyone, including the bully. It delves into the causes and possible cures. There are moments of sadness, suspense, and joy. As a pet owner, who possibly did not understand how to properly care for her previous pets, I found this book to be enlightening even for someone my age. Parents and grandparents should enjoy reading this with their children, and the periods of discussion that can be found at the each chapter. Highly recommended. I received this book from Goodreads as an Advance Reader's Edition.
November 15, 2025
I am very impressed with this book. As someone nearing thirty years old, I may not be the target audience for this book, but I loved it.
I have been volunteering at my local animal shelter for a year and a half. I’ve seen a lot. I really appreciated this book. It was light hearted but there were some parts that were very educational.
There were small nods about real dog behavior, like the hierarchy of a pack and subtleties of movements dogs make.
It talked about a dog whose previous owner died. A dog with a past of “mean hands” hurting him. A dog who was mistakenly accused of attacking a child and was sent to the shelter because of it.
The main boy in the book was bullied by his brother and his friends.
All of these quite dark, serious issues were dealt with extremely well. It never went too deep.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who is an animal lover. It is a real treasure.
I have been volunteering at my local animal shelter for a year and a half. I’ve seen a lot. I really appreciated this book. It was light hearted but there were some parts that were very educational.
There were small nods about real dog behavior, like the hierarchy of a pack and subtleties of movements dogs make.
It talked about a dog whose previous owner died. A dog with a past of “mean hands” hurting him. A dog who was mistakenly accused of attacking a child and was sent to the shelter because of it.
The main boy in the book was bullied by his brother and his friends.
All of these quite dark, serious issues were dealt with extremely well. It never went too deep.
I highly recommend this book for anyone who is an animal lover. It is a real treasure.
March 12, 2021
Gus is a terrier and the leader of a motley crew of secondhand dogs. Each of his pack members has been through struggles, but they have yet to face their most perilous trouble yet. When a new dog tries to worm his way into the top dog spot, not only Gus but his entire family is threatened.
Although cozy at times, this book opens up the real struggle abused and abandoned dogs face as they try to find a place in their forever homes. Kids can pick up some helpful tips on healthy dog ownership and the strength of doing what's right. Warm illustrations and hopeful dialogue pepper this creative yet believable story. I'd recommend this book for middle grade readers who love dogs as well as people of any age who enjoy a realistic story about overcoming past trauma.
Thanks to HarperCollins and the author for this ARC.
Although cozy at times, this book opens up the real struggle abused and abandoned dogs face as they try to find a place in their forever homes. Kids can pick up some helpful tips on healthy dog ownership and the strength of doing what's right. Warm illustrations and hopeful dialogue pepper this creative yet believable story. I'd recommend this book for middle grade readers who love dogs as well as people of any age who enjoy a realistic story about overcoming past trauma.
Thanks to HarperCollins and the author for this ARC.
July 29, 2021
gr 3-5
We had a full cart of new J books and I pulled this one off because I was intrigued by the cover art. (And the great art continues on the first chapter page throughout!) Then when I looked at the author I recognized her as an Illinois author - Carolyn Crimi! She has won a lot of state kids' awards. So I dove in! I was not disappointed. Great story. And what could have been a simple story has a lot of depth while staying solidly on the grade 3-5 age level. It has a lot to say about leadership and compassion without being heavy-handed. I like that the antagonist [spoiler alert] had a redeeming outcome too. I wouldn't be surprised to see this one on a best list of the year, or Newbery contender list. I also liked how the chapter headings were the dogs' names, or "Gus Before." Would be super fun to book talk and read aloud.
We had a full cart of new J books and I pulled this one off because I was intrigued by the cover art. (And the great art continues on the first chapter page throughout!) Then when I looked at the author I recognized her as an Illinois author - Carolyn Crimi! She has won a lot of state kids' awards. So I dove in! I was not disappointed. Great story. And what could have been a simple story has a lot of depth while staying solidly on the grade 3-5 age level. It has a lot to say about leadership and compassion without being heavy-handed. I like that the antagonist [spoiler alert] had a redeeming outcome too. I wouldn't be surprised to see this one on a best list of the year, or Newbery contender list. I also liked how the chapter headings were the dogs' names, or "Gus Before." Would be super fun to book talk and read aloud.
August 1, 2021
Gus is the leader of the pack at Miss Lottie's, where lost and abandoned dogs get a new life. He's kind to the other four pups, though sometimes struggles to make strong decisions. Everyone is happy enough, until the day Decker arrives, a bully of dog who seeks to take over leadership of the pack, or maybe even get rid of the other animals altogether. Gus is not sure how to handle Decker's mean attitude and increasingly manipulative behavior. Everyone deserves a second chance, right? But when Decker convinces little Moon Pie to run away, Gus knows that he much act quickly and fearlessly. The fate of the pack depends on him. A surprisingly nuanced and moving novel for elementary ages about group dynamics, leadership, trauma, and family.
June 24, 2023
Gus is the leader of the dog pack at Miss Lottie's. When a new dog, Decker, joins the pack, tensions rise as dynamics shift and Decker tries to manipulate his way to being the top - and only - dog there.
I listened to the audio book for this text; I enjoyed the voicework throughout. The story itself was super cute.. I liked getting the backstory for not only the dogs but the people involved. Moonpie and Tank were such an adorable duo.
**Spoilers**
I did like at the end how even Decker got a "happy ending." The book acknowledges he wasn't a "bad dog," but had experienced his own trauma that resulted in very specific needs and type of home. That said, his ending was away from Miss Lottie's and the dogs who he had hurt.
I listened to the audio book for this text; I enjoyed the voicework throughout. The story itself was super cute.. I liked getting the backstory for not only the dogs but the people involved. Moonpie and Tank were such an adorable duo.
**Spoilers**
I did like at the end how even Decker got a "happy ending." The book acknowledges he wasn't a "bad dog," but had experienced his own trauma that resulted in very specific needs and type of home. That said, his ending was away from Miss Lottie's and the dogs who he had hurt.
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