A βwholly satisfyingβ (Kirkus Reviews, starred review) novel in verse starring a boy, a lost dog, and a lonely old man, from Newbery Honoree Marion Dane Bauer
Mark is a boy who needs a dog. But he canβt get his mom on board with his plan.
Buddy is a dog who needs a boy. Buddy has an owner already, but not one who understands what a dog really needs.
Mr. LaRue is a neighbor who needs a community. Heβs alone all the time in his huge old houseβand everyone needs more than that.
Over the course of a summer thunderstorm and one chaotic town council meeting, these three characters cross paths and come together in a timeless tale ripe with emotions. Theyβll realize they all need the same things: love, understanding, and a sense of belongingβplus a place to play a game of fetch!