About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels like they do not quite fit the mold of a traditional hero or is struggling with the pressure of high expectations. Smells Like Dog is a whimsical adventure about Homer Pudding, a farm boy who dreams of becoming a world class explorer despite his lack of typical bold traits. When he inherits a seemingly lazy dog and a cryptic treasure map from his late uncle, he must find the courage to face a conniving museum director and a secret society. This story is ideal for children aged 8 to 12 who are navigating transitions or dealing with the loss of a mentor figure. It beautifully balances the sadness of grief with a lighthearted, humorous quest. Parents will appreciate how it validates the quiet, steady kind of bravery found in being yourself rather than trying to be someone else. It is a secular, hopeful tale that emphasizes loyalty and the idea that everyone has a hidden talent, even if it is just a very good sense of smell.
