PACK OF HEARTS
by Donette Vigilante
Illustrated by Stefan Henson
Chichi Books
Children's Fiction
124 pages
ages 7 to 10
COMING MARCH 20th!!!
Pack of Hearts is an illustrated early chapter book for readers ages 7–9, inspired by a true story.
Slick is a thoughtful junkyard dog who believes that looking out for others matters, even when life is hard. When Luna, a gentle poodle from the neighborhood, is suddenly separated from her mom, Slick refuses to stand back and hope for the best. He pulls together a small, unlikely pack, each with their own strengths and fears, and sets out to help her find her way home.
As the pack follows clues through the neighborhood, their journey leads them somewhere unexpected, where kindness, responsibility, and courage begin to shape the outcome in ways they did not anticipate.
Warm, emotionally grounded, and gently humorous, Pack of Hearts explores empathy, community, and what it means to take responsibility for one another. With illustrations throughout and a story that invites both independent reading and shared discussion, this book is well suited for young readers who enjoy animal-centered stories with heart.
Slick is a thoughtful junkyard dog who believes that looking out for others matters, even when life is hard. When Luna, a gentle poodle from the neighborhood, is suddenly separated from her mom, Slick refuses to stand back and hope for the best. He pulls together a small, unlikely pack, each with their own strengths and fears, and sets out to help her find her way home.
As the pack follows clues through the neighborhood, their journey leads them somewhere unexpected, where kindness, responsibility, and courage begin to shape the outcome in ways they did not anticipate.
Warm, emotionally grounded, and gently humorous, Pack of Hearts explores empathy, community, and what it means to take responsibility for one another. With illustrations throughout and a story that invites both independent reading and shared discussion, this book is well suited for young readers who enjoy animal-centered stories with heart.
MY TIDBITS
Friendship, helping others, and never giving up combine with a pack of dogs (and a cat) to adore.
Slick...or at least, that's what the junkyard owner has named him...has been bought and forced to guard the owner's business. Stuck on a chain and mistreated, Slick is more than depressed and sees no way out of his situation, but he's not as alone as he first thought. Slowly, other pets from around the neighborhood meet him, and while he gains a few new friends, his situation remains dark. Then, one of the dogs goes missing, and Slick knows he has to do anything he can to find her and help out. So, he accomplishes the impossible and breaks free. Joined by his new friends, the group hunts downs clues and learns so much about themselves in the process.
This is a wholesome read with emotional goodness. It's impossible not to feel for Slick as he finds himself in a horrible predicament. More sensitive readers should be aware that there are nods toward animal abuse, but these are kept completely in range of the 7 to 10 age group. It's easy to cheer for Slick when he, finally, breaks free, and the entire group is fun to root for as they work together and face challenges they didn't expect. There's a wonderful sense of friendship, working together, persistence, and stepping beyond ones own comfort zone to make this an inspiring read.
The text fits nicely to the age group with large font and ample spacing. There are well-done illustrations sprinkled in, which add a nice touch. The chapters are nicely sized for readers, who are sure of their words but might still feel overwhelmed by full-fledged middle grade novels.
It's an adorable adventure and not just for animal fans.
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