Secondhand Dogs

"Crimi spins a stirring tale about found family . . . Tender takeaways abound in this compassionate tale, notably that 'love makes all the difference.'" —Publishers Weekly

Miss Lottie's home was for second chances.


When she adopted Gus, Roo, Tank, and Moon Pie, Miss Lottie rescued each member of the pack—including herself, her helper, Quinn, and her reclusive cat, Ghost—and turned them into a family. But when a new dog, Decker, arrives and tries to hoard Miss Lottie's heart and home for himself, the pack's future is threatened.


At first, Gus, the insecure pack leader, only notices little things, like tiny Moon Pie being kicked out of the bed and Ghost acting spooked (then again . . . Ghost is a cat). But things soon go from bad to worse as Decker's presence causes disharmony in the group.


When Decker convinces Moon Pie to embark on an impossible journey, it's up to Gus to gather his courage, rally his splintered pack, and bring the little dog home. And with coyotes and cars on the loose, the pack must push through obstacles and dangers to reunite with Moon Pie before he can get hurt—or, nearly as bad, get his heart broken.

"A timely and big-hearted reminder of what's most important in life for all creatures, whether two- or four-legged." —Kirby Larson, Newbery Honor-winning author
"Pervading themes of bullying, leadership, loyalty, and family—among humans and canines alike—raise important issues . . . A sensitive, satisfying, and intriguing canine tale." —Kirkus Reviews