Today's book review is of a young adult fun, coming-of-age novel Walkin' the Dog by Chris Lynch, and published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the book and my honest review. Learn more about this canine and human friendship story below and be sure to enter the giveaway!
Title: Walkin' the Dog
Author: Chris Lynch
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Release Date: March 12, 2024
Format: Hardcover, eBook
Pages: 240 pages
ABOUT THE BOOK
In a family of strong personalities with very strong points of view, Louis is what his mother lovingly calls “the inactivist,” someone who’d rather kick back than stand out. He only hopes he can stay under the radar when he starts high school in the fall, his first experience with public school after years of homeschooling. But when a favor for a neighbor and his stinky canine companion unexpectedly turns into a bustling dog-walking business, Louis finds himself meeting an unprecedented number of new friends—both human and canine. Agatha, a quippy and cagey girl his age always seems to be telling two truths and a lie. Cyrus, a few years his senior, promises he’s going to show Louis how to be a better person, whether Louis wants him to or not. And then there are the dogs: misbehaving border terriers, the four (possibly stolen) sausage dogs, the rest of Louis’s charges, and a mysterious white beast who appears at a certain spot at the edge of the woods.
Dogs and humans alike all seem to have something they want to teach Louis, including his menacing older brother who keeps turning up everywhere. But is Louis ready to learn the lesson he needs most: how to stop being a lone wolf and be part of a pack?
My Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Walkin' the Dog" by Chris Lynch is a heartwarming tale that envelops readers in a cozy world of canine companionship, unexpected friendships, and self-discovery. As a reader, I found myself thoroughly immersed in the story's charm, thanks to Lynch's skillful storytelling and vivid use of sensory details.
One of the highlights of the book is the author's adept use of all four senses, with a particular emphasis on smell. Lynch masterfully brings the characters and their furry friends to life through olfactory descriptions, creating a rich and immersive experience for the reader. From the distinct aroma of misbehaving border terriers to the tantalizing scent of sausage dogs, the olfactory journey adds a delightful layer to the narrative, making it feel incredibly vivid and real.
The humor in "Walkin' the Dog" is another aspect that deserves applause. Lynch infuses the story with wit and clever dialogue, creating moments of levity that are sure to bring a smile to readers of all ages. The humor is well-balanced, adding a lighthearted touch to the narrative without overshadowing the more profound themes of friendship and self-discovery.
While the book is intended for young adults, I couldn't help but feel that it would find an equally welcoming home in a middle-grade library. The relatable characters and their endearing canine companions make the story universally appealing, transcending age boundaries. The themes of friendship, family dynamics, and the journey towards self-acceptance resonate with readers of various ages, making "Walkin' the Dog" a delightful read for a broad audience.
The protagonist, Louis, is a lovable "inactivist" navigating the challenges of public high school and discovering the joys of unexpected friendships. The diverse cast of characters, including the quippy Agatha, the mentor-like Cyrus, and the intriguing canine personalities, adds depth to the narrative and keeps the story engaging from start to finish.
In conclusion, "Walkin' the Dog" is a delightful and heartwarming read that seamlessly blends humor, sensory richness, and relatable characters. Chris Lynch's storytelling prowess shines through, creating a cozy and enjoyable experience that lingers in the reader's mind. Whether you're a dog lover or simply seeking a feel-good story, this book is a charming addition to any library, and I highly recommend it for readers of all ages.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Chris Lynch is the award–winning author of several highly acclaimed young adult novels, including Printz Honor Book Freewill, Iceman, Gypsy Davey, and Shadow Boxer—all ALA Best Books for Young Adults—as well as Killing Time in Crystal City, Little Blue Lies, Pieces, Kill Switch, Angry Young Man, and Inexcusable, which was a National Book Award finalist and the recipient of six starred reviews. Chris is the author of middle-grade novel Walkin’ the Dog. He holds an MA from the writing program at Emerson College. He teaches in the creative writing MFA program at Lesley University. He lives in Boston and in Scotland.
CHRIS LYNCH’S IN-PERSON WALKIN’ THE DOG TOUR:
Tuesday, 03.12.24 at 7:00pm ET
Porter Square Books (Cambridge, MA)
In conversation with Sara Farizan
Wednesday, 03.13.24 at 7:00pm ET
Broadside Bookshop (Northampton, MA)
In conversation with Michael Mercurio
Thursday, 03.14.24 at 6:00pm ET
Books of Wonder (New York, NY)
In conversation with E.L. Shen, Caela Carter, and Cathy Carr
Giveaway:
One hardcover copy of Walkin's the Dog by Chris Lynch. USA only, ends on March 31, 2024 at 12:00 a.m. EST.