Love That Dog

If you haven't read Love That Dog by Sharon Creech, do. Go to the library. Don't even take the time to check it out. Sit down in the aisle and read it. It takes about 15-20 minutes. Sure it's 86 pages long, but the format is a quick read. QUICK.

A friend of mine (thanks Brittney) gave me her copy to read. When I saw her tonight, she asked if I had read it. She so enthusiastically asked me, that I felt a little sheepish when I replied, "No, I haven't yet. But I really want to." Well, when I got home, I put Callie to bed and got her book out. Like I said, it was a quick read, but it was so great. Really great. I even teared up.

Love That Dog is written in the voice of a young boy -- I would say an elementary school aged boy. He writes in his school journal responses to poetry that his teacher introduces and reads to the class. Along the way, he writes some of his own and learns that not only can he write poetry, but he enjoys it. I was surprised that in such few words, I was able to really love this young boy. I think it's because his character is a reflection of most all kids -- his attitudes, his discoveries, and his love for his dog. I also loved this book because it is yet another example of how a writer can pack so much in to such a small amount of space. Perfect word choice is what makes a good book great. Love that book!