QUEEN OF DOGS BY JOE WEATHERSTONE, PUBLISHED BY WALKER BOOKS

11-year-old Maddy lives at a different pace to the rest of her busy, high-achieving family. They’re out the door super early while Maddy prefers a slower approach and, with her best friend Gusto, a cheeky pug, she takes her time getting to school. Together they visit the neighbourhood dogs, bringing them treats and belly rubs.

When Gusto disappears Maddy is frantic. Her family help to look for her but give up far too quickly as far as Maddy is concerned. Roaming the streets herself, trying to figure out where Gusto could have gone, Maddy comes across a big, hairy dog who looks lost as well. She reaches out to pat him and is bitten. That’s when things get interesting. By some strange anomaly, Maddy can understand what the dog is saying, and he can understand her. It’s crazy and amazing at the same time. Together Maddy and Chompsky make a deal to help each other out.

Queen of Dogs is a Middle Grade novel that champions loners and those who don’t fit to a common mould. Maddy’s character has been abandoned by her best friend, must contend with super talented siblings and parents who are unable to handle a child who moves through the world with a different step. The pressure of keeping up, paying attention and looming scholarship exams weigh heavily on Maddy but with Gusto who is loyal and fun, she can get through her days. Seeing the world through Maddy’s eyes gives readers an insight into what many of the quiet people in our lives experience. It’s also a book that shows the wonder of talking with dogs – something every dog owner would love to do. Along with the mystery of disappearing dogs, baddies and bold exploits, this book will be enjoyed by many readers.

For Ages: 9+ years

Number of Pages: 288

Published: June 2024 Walker Books

Themes: Family, loneliness, friendship, mystery

Purchase here: https://www.dymocks.com.au/book/queen-of-dogs-by-joe-weatherstone-9781760658588