Claire Garth (text), Johannes Leak (illus.), Grover, Stretch and the Broken Leg (Grover McBane Rescue Dog #4), Piccolo Nero, 31 July 2017, 128pp., $12.99 (pbk), ISBN 9781863959452
This sweet junior novel series is based on a real-life rescue dog, Grover McBane. Grover is the chief office dog at an animal shelter where he ably assists his owner Annie in tending to injured and abandoned animals. In this story, Grover becomes responsible for tending to Stretch – a greyhound puppy with a broken leg and boundless energy. It’s up to Grover to try and keep Stretch from getting into mischief – easier said than done!
Animal loving kids in middle primary will enjoy these easy readers, especially with their adorable line illustrations. All ends well for Stretch and the underlying message about pets needing a permanent and loving home is one worth learning early.
The books are given an added authenticity as the author is the general manager of the Sydney Dogs and Cats Home. She adopted the real Grover in 2013. A percentage of proceeds from the sale of the books goes to the home.
Reviewed by Heather Gallagher
