80 pages • 2 hours read
How to Steal a Dog
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Book Brief
192
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
8-12 years
700L
Super Short Summary
How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O'Connor follows Georgina Hayes, an adolescent girl who, after her family is evicted and becomes homeless, devises a plan to steal a dog to claim the reward money in hopes of securing a new home for her family. The novel portrays Georgina's moral struggles, interactions with her community, and the eventual resolution through kindness and understanding.
Emotional
Challenging
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
15,562 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O'Connor centers on themes of family, poverty, and moral dilemmas, providing a compelling narrative for young readers. The book excels in character development and realistic portrayals of hardship, but some critics feel the plot resolution is too simplistic. Overall, it is praised for addressing difficult issues with sensitivity and empathy.
Who Should Read How to Steal a Dog?
A reader who would enjoy How to Steal a Dog by Barbara O'Connor is likely a middle-grade student (ages 8-12) who appreciates heartwarming, realistic stories about family, friendship, and moral dilemmas. Fans of Kate DiCamillo’s Because of Winn-Dixie and Sharon Creech’s Walk Two Moons will find this book engaging.
15,562 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
192
Novel • Fiction
North Carolina • Contemporary
2007
Middle grade
8-12 years
700L
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