At Dogtown, Mouse is to his mouse buddies what Chance used to be to the dogs locked in their cages, (in Book 1).
Just like Chance used to sort squabbles and problems for the dogs, Mouse looks after the other mice by stealing kibble from the dogs and small items like bottle tops and mint containers for mouse furniture.
One dog named Buster helps Mouse by saving kibble for him, and letting Mouse hang out in the kennels without alerting the humans who look after them.
Mouse also enjoys the Reading Buddy program organised by a local teacher, for children to come to the adoption centre to read to their favourite dog.
When a girl named Saanvi chooses Buster, both dog, and mouse enjoy the stories. Saanvi gets quite attached to Buster and would love to adopt him. The problem is, Buster has been adopted more times than most, with his golden coat and great smile. But Buster can’t help himself when it comes to food, and is returned to Dogtown over and over, shamed by his terrible behaviour.
Another dog named Stewie arrives, and the human that leaves him labels Stewie, mean. Sure Stewie is a BIG dog, but he is in no way a nasty dog.
Mouse soon realises when Buster is returned yet again after a failed adoption that he is going to be a candidate for the dreaded LIST.
There is another who could be added to this LIST. He is an e-dog who was incorrectly assembled at his factory, making him part smoke alarm. His alarm goes off at random, also making him unpopular at the centre.
Mouse knows he must do something to get Buster, Smoke Alarm and even Stewie adopted – and fast. But can a tiny mouse that fits into Buster’s armpit really change three dog’s future, finding them forever families?
The 2nd book in the Dogtown series, Mouse & His Dog has just as much heart as the 1st.
Mouse tells the story in 1st person (or mouse) taking the reader on a courageous quest to save three dog friends – and also make a young girl, an old lady and a teacher, very happy.
So many things make this story a perfect read. There are animals, bravery, books, and fun simple illustrations. The wide text, short chapters, and of course the added bonus of being in a series, is also a winning factor for young readers.
Come and meet the dogs of Dogtown and a very brave, kind mouse.
Author – Katherine Applegate
Illustrator – Wallace West
Age – 7+
Find the 1st book in the Dogtown series here
Find more great reads by Katherine Applegate here
(2024, Wellbeck Publishing, Hachette NZ, Dogs, Mouse, Mice, Dog Shelter, Animals, Dog Pound, Reading program, Adoption, Buddies, Friendship, Plan, Escape, Humour, Animal Behaviour, Series)