Clawed by L. A. Kornetsky

 

This is another pet's are smart mystery.   Ms. Kornetsky has Georgie, the Sharpei, and Miss Penny, the cat as major characters.   This mystery brings Ginny into conflict with both the police and a mysterious murderer.

Once again I am appreciative of the relationship between Ginny and Teddy as well as the relationship between Georgie and Miss Penny.   There is amusing musing by Miss Penny in this story.  

The relationship growth between the two humans is glacially slow.   However it leads one to believe there will be more volumes to come which is welcome.  

The skill illustrated by the less than dynamic duo are further honed in this story and even appreciated in some law enforcement areas.

Complimentary skills makes for a good couple and it seems that may be the direction the two human protagonists are moving.   Miss Penny on the other hand, doubts that Georgie will ever be able to function without her help.

I enjoyed the book and look forward to sequels.

I am enjoying this series, see my review of Collared

Facebook:

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Blog:

http://www.lauraannegilman.net/whats-in-print/l-a-kornetsky/

This book may have been received free of charge from a publisher or a publicist. That will NEVER have a bearing on my recommendations.

Racing in the Rain, My Life as a Dog by Garth Stein

 This is a painfully poignant story narrated by a dog.   If you like soupy books and love dogs, prepare your reading time with a full box of tissues. 

This is the story of a family and their dog.   A dog that just knows that his next revolution on the wheel of creation he is going to have opposable thumbs and vocal cords uses his insight and narrative skills to tell the story.

The story is moving and characterizes the value of perseverance, patience and tenacity.   Love can not conquer all but love can sustain life.    Driving race cars provide Denny and Enzo metaphors for living their lives.   This story can teach compassion and a willingness to help others. 

This is purported to be a kid’s book and admittedly the reading level is hardly taxing.   However it is emotionally charged and could be a bit intense for the younger reader.  (Remember Ole Yeller?) 

Although this book could easily be read by the literate first grader I would not recommend it for the primary grades.   I think it would be fine for the upper elementary grades and on up.  I enjoyed it but then there have always been questions regarding my maturity level.

I recommend the book, it is inspiring, sad and satisfying.

Body of work of Garth Stein

Web Site: http://www.garthstein.com/arr/