If you are looking for an affirming story with a ton of heart, then look no further. The Underdogs of Upson Downs is a tender and sweet story of a girl and her dog. Set in rural Australia, Annie is an eleven-year-old girl who takes on a lot of responsibility–perhaps more responsibility than she should. Runt, her dog, is a wonder. His loyalty to Annie and his quirks are so endearing. There is a strong supporting family cast which is so refreshing. The pacing is spot-on so the story flows by effortlessly.

It is always a little nerve-wracking to read a book with dogs (think Where the Red Fern Grows). Not wanting to give anything away, let’s just say this book has some ups and downs, but it won’t take your heart, grind it up, and throw it away in a million pieces. (In other words, a young reader will not come to you in tears at the conclusion.) The author gives solid resolution to the characters; only one of the “endings” for one of the characters felt forced and contrived because it really came out of the blue. Other than that unnecessary incongruity, this was an adorable story with many light-touch lessons for any reader.

Review of a Digital Advance Reading Copy Provided by the Publisher

Content Analysis:

Profanity/Language: None

Violence/Gore: Brief account of a mishap in a log chop event in the past in which an individual lost a limb; character breaks a limb; implied death of an individual in a severe weather event.

Sex/Nudity: Kissing booth at a fair; an older woman is said to be trying dating services; a scene of innuendo where it is implied that two characters of the same sex are romantically attracted/interested in each other.

Mature Subject Matter:

Poverty/economic distress, drought, cheating, responsibility.

Alcohol/Drug Use:

None