How to Steal a Dog: A Novel

About the Author Barbara O'Connor is the author of award-winning novels for children, including How to Steal a Dog, The Small Adventure of Popeye and Elvis, and The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester. Drawing on her South Carolina roots, Barbara's books are known for their strong Southern settings and quirky characters. In addition to six Parents Choice Awards, Barbara's distinctions include School Library Journal Best Books, Kirkus Best Books, Bank Street College Best Books, and ALA Notables. She has had books nominated for children's choice awards in 38 states. Barbara is a popular visiting author at schools and a frequent speaker at conferences around the country. She currently lives in Asheville, NC. Product Description Don't miss Barbara O'Connor's other middle-grade work―like Wish; Wonderland; Greetings from Nowhere; Fame and Glory in Freedom, Georgia; The Fantastic Secret of Owen Jester; and more! Half of me was thinking, Georgina, don't do this. Stealing a dog is just plain wrong. The other half of me was thinking, Georgina, you're in a bad fix and you got to do whatever it takes to get yourself out of it. Georgina Hayes is desperate. Ever since her father left and they were evicted from their apartment, her family has been living in their car. With her mama juggling two jobs and trying to make enough money to find a place to live, Georgina is stuck looking after her younger brother, Toby. And she has her heart set on improving their situation. When Georgina spots a missing-dog poster with a reward of five hundred dollars, the solution to all her problems suddenly seems within reach. All she has to do is "borrow" the right dog and its owners are sure to offer a reward. What happens next is the last thing she expected. How to Steal a Dog is a 2008 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year. This title has Common Core connections. Review “Will keep youngsters totally engaged. This novel's gentle storytelling carries a theme of love and emphasizes what is really right in the world.” ―School Library Journal, Starred Review “This is truly Georgina's story, and to O'Connor's great credit, it's Georgina herself who figures out what's right and does it. The myriad effects of homelessness and the realistic picture of moral quandary will surely generate discussion.” ―Booklist “A suspenseful and achingly realistic story.” ―Kirkus Reviews “O'Connor knows how to spin a touching story, and reading this novel is its own reward.” ―The Horn Book “O'Connor once again smoothly balances challenging themes with her heroine's strength and sense of humor.” ―Publishers Weekly “Will give a more privileged audience much to ponder.” ―The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books “A must-have for a classroom library.” ―IRA