60 pages 2 hours read

Sharon Creech

Love That Dog

Fiction | Novel/Book in Verse | Middle Grade | Published in 2001

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Love That Dog by Sharon Creech follows young Jack's journey to loving poetry through free verse journal entries. Initially resistant to writing poems and disliking his work, Jack starts to incorporate new phrases and structure, gradually appreciating poetry. Inspired by Walter Dean Myers, Jack writes his heartfelt piece, overcoming his fears and sharing his poem with others. Themes of loss and healing are present.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Love That Dog by Sharon Creech is praised for its emotional depth and innovative free-verse narrative, making poetry accessible to young readers. While the book's simplicity is generally appreciated, some find its approach to heavy themes overly simplistic. Overall, it effectively engages readers with its heartfelt story and poetic charm.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Love That Dog?

Readers who enjoy Love That Dog by Sharon Creech are typically young readers aged 8-12 who appreciate emotionally resonant stories. They are drawn to verse novels and relatable protagonists. Fans of Because of Winn-Dixie by Kate DiCamillo or Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse would find similar enjoyment in this book.

RecommendedReading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

1010L

Book Details

Genre

Realistic Fiction

Drama / Tragedy

Children's Literature

Topics

Animals

Education

Themes

Values/Ideas: Power & Greed

Natural World: Animals

Values/Ideas: Literature