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📖 Steal the spotlight with a story that’s stealing hearts everywhere!
How to Steal a Dog is a critically acclaimed middle-grade novel by Barbara O'Connor, celebrated for its heartfelt narrative about family, resilience, and tough choices. With top rankings in social issue categories and a stellar 4.7-star rating from thousands of readers, this book is a must-have for parents and educators aiming to inspire empathy and screen-free reading among kids.












| Dimensions | 5.25 x 0.55 x 7.65 inches |
| Edition | First Edition |
| Grade Level | 3 - 6 |
| Isbn 10 | 0312561121 |
| Isbn 13 | 978-0312561123 |
| Item Weight | 5.4 ounces |
| Language | English |
| Print Length | 192 pages |
| Publication Date | April 27, 2009 |
| Publisher | Square Fish |
| Reading Age | 8 - 11 years, from customers |
User
Popular with the elementary age kiddos.
Ten year old granddaughter absolutely loves this book! I think she finished it in a day or two - she just couldn’t put it down. I work in an elementary school and a few of the students I work with have also said they were dying to read this book as well, so I figure for word to spread amongst the kids that it’s that good - it must be that good. Any book that gets kids away from screens is a five star book!
User
Amazing book
Reading to my 4th grade class they are loving it. They begged everyday for one more chapter. W did it for fun, but had meaningful discussions. They made predictions and drew inferences. I had a standing clapping ovation when we read the last chapter. It made them thankful for all the blessings they had in their lives and more understanding of those that have less. Amazing book!
User
My kid who hates to read loved this
Good book for both boys and girls. My rising 5th grader does not like to read but did great with this book. My rising 3rd grader would love it too.
User
Funny, Heartfelt Story With Important Life Lessons
A clever and engaging story that balances humor with meaningful lessons about honesty, family, and doing the right thing. The main character feels realistic and relatable, and the situations throughout the book keep younger readers interested while still delivering emotional depth underneath the humor. The story handles difficult topics in a way that is age appropriate without losing its warmth or charm.What stands out most is how naturally the book encourages empathy and thoughtful conversations while still being genuinely funny and entertaining. Overall, it’s an enjoyable, memorable read that mixes humor with strong life lessons in a way that connects well with kids
User
Wonderful book for kids about making difficult choices and the resulting consequences
My daughter received this book after reading and liking another book by the same author and it didn’t disappoint. The main character’s family faces a difficult situation and she makes a decision to do something drastic to attempt to change her family’s circumstances. The book continues with her quickly realizing that she really didn’t think things through very well and she has to come up with solutions to the new problems that she didn’t anticipate. Without spoiling the ending, things do end up working out. It’s a great story about not making judgements by outward appearances, accepting help when it’s offered and to trust your gut feelings.
User
Highly recommend
This is one terrific book. I adore the author!
User
Children will better understand poverty, truthfulness, compassion, and devotion
As parents, we are constantly looking for that special "Summer Read for Kids" that will teach our children essential lessons. How to Steal a Dog is a book that will not disappoint in the lessons it has to offer.Sadly, I remember working two jobs to support my kids, just like Georgina's mom. I know what it's like to go to bed hungry because there is only enough food to feed the children.In addition, I remember how ugly the kids at school can be to the student who arrives in dirty, unkempt clothing. I was the one who took them to my house to find something clean they could wear.Georgina has lost her father and her home. Her mother is doing her best to take care of the children, but living in a car isn't working for Georgina. The family isn't in trouble because they are lazy or bad. Circumstances can change in an instant. Our kids need to understand that before it's too late. I can't imagine another summer read for kids that does a better job of teaching compassion.After reading this remarkable story, your children will be rewarded with a better understanding of poverty, truthfulness, compassion, and devotion.
User
Great book
I bought this for my granddaughter but also read it myself. It was a really good book. All books by this author are good reads.
User
Great novel for kids and adults
Such a great novel! Bought on Kindle to see if my school should buy a set for novel studies. It was a definite yes from us. Kids love the story (and so do adults). Lots of great themes around homelessness and the power of choices. Definitely recommend
User
Gran enseñanza
Muy recomendable para toda la familia
User
Four Stars
Entertaining !
User
8 year old daughter loved the book!
My 8 year old loved daughter the book. She’s an avid reader and devoured it in just a few days. She seemed to enjoy it even more than Wish.
User
Novel
Daughter likes this book, easy to read, great for an animal lover
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