Gr 3-6 A heartwarming illustrated novel adapted for young readers from the best-selling A Dog's Purpose . Bailey, a golden retriever, narrates the story. Sensing that puppies are meant to leave their mothers and that there is something on the other side of the gate that he was born to find, Bailey leaves his dog family and soon meets Ethan ("I hadn't known that there was such a thing as a boy in the world. But now that I'd found one, I was sure that there could not be anything better."). Bailey is determined to be with the boy he loves. He learns that sometimes bad things happen and there is no greater purpose than to protect the boy he loves. This is a touching book about the connection dogs have with humans and how they communicate in their own special way. Black-and-white illustrations bring Bailey and his world to life. Discussion and activity guides are included, which will help promote conversations about Bailey's tale and the insights it provides about humankind's best friend.

Bailey, a golden retriever puppy, knows there is more to life than the cage in which he was born. His master brings his mother food but will not let them play in the grass and explore. One day, Bailey escapes and travels to find his purpose. He meets a variety of people (not all of them good) before he meets Ethan, who quickly becomes "his boy." At first, Bailey believes his purpose to be to play with Ethan and make him happy, but as Ethan grows up, Bailey discovers that his true purpose is to protect his boy from the complex world around them.It is often said that dogs are man's best friend, and this book proves it as readers experience life as a dog through Bailey's narration. Middle-grade students who love animals will enjoy Bailey's character. He is playful and innocent, not understanding the finer details of potty training, for example, but also loyal and caring. Readers will laugh out loud at his antics and feel tears in their eyes at the way Bailey worries about Ethan. The simple black-and-white illustrations capture the feeling of Bailey's journey to discover his true purpose in life.áAt times, the action moves a bit slowly, so an interest in animals is a must for any reader of this novel. Overall, this is a very heartwarming story.Jennifer Baker.