Barker's Doghouse

The first book in a charming and funny early middle grade series about a boy finding his way in a new place with the help of some talking dogs. A little bit New Kid, a little bit Secret Life of Pets.

Ten-year-old Gio Barker is down in the dumps. His mom has uprooted him to a new school and a new town, all so she can start her own business. Gio used to see friends after school, but now he’s stuck hanging around his mom’s new doggy day care. Then one day he mistakes a dog biscuit for a human cookie, and suddenly he can talk to the dogs!

The day care dogs become the friends Gio desperately needs. They tell him some of the great secrets of dog life, and he takes them for wild romps in the park. But when the dogs realize that Gio is struggling, they take it upon themselves to teach him everything they know. Sure, they’re lessons from dog school, but some of these skills are useful in any context. Take Fetch, for instance. It’s a game of give and take—perfect skills to practice if Gio wants to make the soccer team or find a human friend!

"Along with resolutely losing no opportunity for puns, Alfano further enriches the flavor of the dialogue with occasional Spanish words and expressions. A fetching series kickoff with a waggish premise."—Booklist