Love That Dog

By: Sharon Creech

Narrated by: Scott Wolf

The Newbery Medal-winning author of Walk Two Moons, Sharon Creech, brings readers a story with enormous heart. This middle grade audiobook is an excellent choice for tween readers in grades 5 to 6, especially during homeschooling. It’s a fun way to keep your child entertained and engaged while not in the classroom.

Love That Dog shows how one boy named Jack finds his voice with the help of a teacher, a pencil, some yellow paper, and of course, a dog. Written as a series of free-verse poems from Jack's point of view, and with classic poetry included in the back matter, this novel is perfect for kids and teachers, too.

Jack hates poetry. Only girls write it and every time he tries to, his brain feels empty. But his teacher, Miss Stretchberry, won't stop giving her class poetry assignments—and Jack can't avoid them. But then something amazing happens. The more he writes, the more he learns that he does have something to say.

""I guess it does
look like a poem
when you see it
typed up
like that.""

Cute!

Such a great and powerful book for young readers in upper elementary (4/5 grade)

Use this book in my classroom

What did you love best about Love That Dog?

I use it to teach plot: narrative elements and theme. I can then pull it back out for the poetry unit. The audio version added to the experience.

Who was your favorite character and why?

Miss Stretchberry..........model of what teachers strive to do

Which scene was your favorite?

I love the entire book. However, when Jack wants to learn to "type" I get excited as he is taking responsibility for his own learning. This is huge for a student and one I always point out to my own class.

Was there a moment in the book that particularly moved you?

Yes ...but that would be a spoiler

Any additional comments?

I have used "Love That Dog" as a read loud in second and third grade. It works even better in sixth grade, as the depth of meaning, and literary devices can be discussed more effectively. It is a book that almost every student can relate to.

Quirky, fun, and effective

This fun little book made me thankful for teachers like the fictional Mrs. Stretchberry who inspire their students. Scott Wolf's narration is perfect and really helps make it work.

Creative and Inspiring!

I love how this book shows the thoughts of a writer. It is short yet powerful. I chose it because all of the 4th grade students where I work have to read it.

Great book

Made me cry when the poem about the dog came on, I can relate in but different way.