Young Cecilia is quiet and unsure of herself, especially now that her BFF, Mel, has moved away and a fire has forced Cecilia and her father to move in with intimidating Aunt Pam. Cecilia's solace is volunteering at the animal shelter. Then a rescue dog nicknamed Potato is adopted by her cute classmate Eric, who intends to make Potato a show dog, and Cecilia cannot decide whether to like him or resent him for taking Potato away. The ensuing puppy-love drama (for both man and beast) is interspersed with learning the show-dog circuit, making new friends, and rooting for Cecilia's dad to get back on his feet. This is a feel-good novel for youngsters that works, even for those who aren't enamored of dogs. Themes of family, friendship, and first love are gently explored in this novel filled with humor and tenderness.