RUCKUS

Things are hard for middle grader Reece, with his parents newly split up and Ruckus, his young, energetic, and appropriately named Jack Russell terrier, proving to be a behavioral challenge.

The final straw is when Ruckus eats Reece’s mom’s diamond earrings. Will he be able to pass them, or might it make him terribly sick? Reece is tasked with pushing all of Ruckus’ poop through a sieve in an effort to recover the missing jewels—a storyline with a significant ick factor that’s sure to appeal to the young intended audience. Meanwhile Reece frets about his parents’ uncertain relationship and his rising worry that his mom will return Ruckus to the breeder. Although this is a brief tale, the characters all are believably depicted, and the theme of a family in flux is pertinent for many potential readers. Elmquist keeps the story real: Reece’s parents aren’t likely to reunite, but he begins to develop some understanding of their individual needs, and Ruckus is given an outlet for his boundless energy, making for an optimistic conclusion. Parkins’ detailed illustrations are particularly attractive and break up the brief chapters, making this an inviting read for those newly transitioned to chapter books. They depict Reece and his family as white.

A good choice for pet lovers and those who are dealing with uncertain family dynamics