Putting a fear to rest Sara Barker is afraid of dogs. Whenever she sees even a picture of one, she feels clammy and cold all over. So what's Sara to do when she learns that her new next-door neighbor owns two of them? Two young and big dogs, to be specific. Her neighbor turns out to be an ebullient older woman who befriends Sara and promises her dogs will keep their distance. But one day a situation arises in which Sara is forced to venture into the yard next door, even as the dogs there are desperately barking. Kids will relate to Sara, and dog-lovers will enjoy seeing her overcome her fears in this easy-to-read chapter book, with numerous cheerful pictures. The Next-Door Dogs is a 2006 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.

Dogs are truly one of God's finest creatures, a marvelous gift for us humans. In the perfect follow-up to A Prince among Dogs, Callie Smith Grant compiles a delightful collection of true stories that celebrate the dogs in our lives. These stories will touch our hearts, renew our spirits, and show us how God made these wonderful creatures for unique purposes. Readers will love these uplifting glimpses into the lives of ordinary and extraordinary dogs and the people who love them. The stories are warm, captivating, and ideal for a good curl-up-and-read or a perfect gift for any dog lover.

Katie the dog learns that sharing can be fun when she becomes friends with the playful puppy next door.

Veteran Joe and his family have moved in next door to Lucas. Dad and Joe are good mates who served in the military together. They both look well and healthy, but Joe is troubled by memories that make him anxious, angry or sad. That's why he has Poppy, an Assistance Dog, who goes with him everywhere. When Lucas sees Joe getting off the bus with Poppy by his side, he wants to know more. He listens to Dad but doesn't really understand how Poppy helps Joe until he sees it for himself. At a cafe Lucas looks on while Poppy keeps watch, stays close to Joe, and allows him to relax and enjoy the celebration without worrying about what is happening behind him. That's when Lucas begins to understand the wonderful work that Poppy does to help Joe to live a full life. He also learns that the way people look does not always tell the whole story.

Princess Posey is back with the third story in this chapter book series for first grade readers! After hearing about her classmate's new puppy, Posey wants a dog of her own even though she's a little bit scared of dogs. When a new neighbor moves in with a dog that has a very big bark, Posey tries not to be afraid. Will her special pink tutu give her the courage to befriend the next-door dog? "Posey is the perfect fictional friend for any first-grade girl."—Kirkus Reviews

A heartwarming collection of true stories about the beautiful relationship between people and their dogs.