Wombat Waiting

In this wholesome verse novel by Applegate (Pocket Bear), based on a true story, a small stray dog scrapes out a living in a local park when Santa Ana winds ignite a devastating wildfire that sets the canine on a collision course with a similarly affected human family. Though instinct urges the dog to flee from the fire as it approaches the park, “a voice, soft and sure,” draws her toward the blaze. Meanwhile, tween Henry Cooper, his two mothers, and his younger sister are forced to evacuate their home for a shelter. Henry loves helping his veterinarian Mama Ro at a wildlife center, but a past trauma has left him wary of dogs. As fate nudges boy and pooch toward each other, both must decide whether they are ready to trust. The canine’s endearing restlessness and aching to belong makes for a winning protagonist. While a happy ending is telegraphed early on, the narrative remains charged, with harrowing descriptions of the disaster—drawn from Southern California’s recent fires—balanced by an undercurrent of hope. Expressive, realistic b&w illustrations from Bricking (Ivy and Forest Rewrite the World) amplify the emotional resonance. Henry is described as having light brown skin. Ages 8–12. Author’s agent: Elena Giovinazzo, Heirloom Literary. Illustrator’s agent: Justin Rucker, Shannon Assoc. (May)