Oh My Dog!

Twelve-year-old Caroline Kline and her father, who read as white, are still rebuilding their lives following her mother’s death five years ago and the loss of their house in a hurricane three years ago. Chafing at the necessary frugality and quietly wishing for a more active social life, Caroline gets a job walking her new neighbor’s dog Denver—with whom she can apparently communicate. She’s even further astonished when Denver informs her that he has a message from the heavens: “the world is running out of belief... we need your help to bring it back.” As she embarks on her quest, Caroline must find a way to balance making new friends, becoming a minor TikTok star, and rekindling her faith in the world. Via quietly heartfelt prose, Palmer (The Jules Verne Prophecy) presents a thoughtful meditation on connection, belonging, and people “seeing the goodness in themselves and others.” Though brief temptations regarding the prospect of popularity and social media success jeopardize her existing relationships, and the pressure of her mission threatens to overwhelm, Caroline remains steadfastly good at heart, especially thanks to Denver’s unwavering doggy support, in this positive story with an uplifting message. Ages 8–12. Agent: Fonda Snyder, Alchemy Ink. (Aug.)