Smiley is a rescued, disabled golden retriever with such a mellow and kind disposition that he has become a highly effective therapy dog.He was born in a Canadian puppy mill, and like many puppy mill dogs, he has suffered lifelong consequences. He was born without eyes and also has dwarfism, causing him to have a somewhat oversized head and shortened limbs. Rescued by the author, a veterinary technician, he was extremely anxious during his early days: he could not be left home alone, was afraid to ride in a car, and was very withdrawn. Under George's tender care, he gradually learned to overcome some of his fears. He came to work with her at a veterinary clinic, where he became comfortable meeting strangers. Since George has two other dogs, he learned to get along with other animals. Many attractive color photographs of this genial dog are included. The brief text describes Smiley's many problems without ever getting maudlin and includes several uplifting quotes from a variety of well-known people. A scattering of page-sized sidebars describe puppy mills, explain the use of therapy dogs, and offer achievable ways that readers can help. The connection between people overcoming disabilities and Smiley's upbeat existence is alluded to but not so heavy-handedly it will turn readers off. An appealing and upbeat biography of a winsome dog with a plucky and compassionate owner. (Nonfiction. 7-12)

Gr 4 Up-Smiley was born in a Canadian puppy mill, and like so many other puppy mill dogs, he had already experienced lifelong difficulties. Smiley was born without eyes and with dwarfism, which caused him to have a larger head than most dogs and shorter limbs. George, the author of this book, is a veterinary technician; when she first saw Smiley, she immediately fell in love. She named him Smiley because he always looked like he was smiling even though the scars on his face showed that he had experienced a great deal in his short life. Smiley was extremely anxious during his early days with George but she was tenacious in his training. Eventually, Smiley became as a St. John Ambulance Therapy Dog. He visited hospitals, senior homes, and schools to offer comfort and hope to those who needed it. The book contains many attractive color photographs of Smiley. Children will be able to read about the canine's many problems without feeling sad or depressed about his life. Several uplifting quotes from a variety of well-known people are scattered throughout. VERDICT A joyful addition to all nonfiction collections. Amy Caldera, Dripping Springs Middle School, TX

This touching and engaging picture-book biography relates the story of golden retriever Smiley, who, through struggles and challenges, became a beloved, well-known therapy dog. Born without eyes and with other conditions in a puppy mill, Smiley's life began to change after being rescued by George, a veterinary technician. Though initially distrustful and distant, with nurturing and unconditional love, Smiley began developing trust, confidence, and ways to not only cope and adapt but thrive. Progressively, his friendly nature and demeanor, as well as his ability to comfort and uplift others, led George to pursue his therapy-dog certification. From nursing homes to schools, and through social-media exposure, Smiley heartened many. The accessibly written, descriptive narrative, incorporating abundant photos of Smiley and interspersed with encouraging motivational quotes, addresses topics like disabilities straightforwardly and sensitively, all while conveying the importance of positive attitudes, respect, and understanding. Side information further explains concepts such as puppy mills and what therapy dogs are and the jobs they do. Many readers will find Smiley's tale affecting and inspiring.