Wish by Barbara O'Connor

Wish

By Barbara O'Connor

Charlie Reese has been making the same secret wish every day since fourth grade. But when she is sent to live with family she barely knew, it seems unlikely that her wish will ever come true. That is, until she meets Wishbone, a skinny stray dog who captures her heart, and Howard, a neighbor boy who proves surprising in lots of ways. Suddenly Charlie is in serious danger of discovering that what she thought she wanted may not be at all what she needs.
I picked up this book because is was recommended to me by a student. This book did not disappoint!

DRA 50

Lexile Level 850

Craig & Fred By Craig Grossi

Craig & Fred: A Marine, A Stray Dog, and How They Rescued Each Other

By Craig Grossi

I was six thousand miles from home, in a combat zone, in one of the hardest places in the world. Unlike me, Fred was home. This compound was all he knew. And even though he'd probably never had a drink of clean water before or a scratch behind the ear, he was gentle and sweet. Looking down at home, I let go of worrying about the no-dog policy or when the next round of fighting would begin. For that moment, I felt like I was home, too. 

WOW! This autobiography is such an eye opening, touching book! Craig does a great job balancing out his life in a combat zone and adjusting to life back home. I am a dog lover and can only imagine the peace Fred gave Craig. Great read for students! Here is a short video about the book: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cJwGRL0r70I