100 Best Pets Books of All Time (Updated for 2026)

1

The Art of Racing in the Rain

Garth Stein

5.0

Enzo knows he is different from other dogs: a philosopher with a nearly human soul (and an obsession with opposable thumbs), he has educated himself by watching television extensively, and by listening very closely to the words of his master, Denny Swift, an up-and-coming race car driver.

Through Denny, Enzo has gained tremendous insight into the human condition, and he sees that life, like racing,

Recommended by AnneMarie Schindler, Craig Pearce, Fabrice Grinda, and 2 others.

AnneMarie Schindler

Most of the books I read are business related (I'm sure that says something about me) but my favorite non-business book is The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein. I never had a pet growing up. Then, I decided to make a cross-country move and get my first dog. Someone recommended the book to me in my early days of pet parenthood and it gave me a perspective I was really lacking. Years later, I still reflect on its creativity, perspective, and how it captures the arch of life. [source]

Craig Pearce

Prior to getting into books about business and startups, I read mostly fictional books, and mostly about dogs (think Marley and Me or The Art of Racing In The Rain). [source]

Fabrice Grinda

I have lots of books to recommend, but they are not related to my career path. The only one that is remotely related is Peter Thiel’s Zero to One. That said here are books I would recommend. [source]

2

Marley and Me: Life and Love With the World's Worst Dog

John Grogan

4.9

John and Jenny were just beginning their life together. They were young and in love, with a perfect little house and not a care in the world. Then they brought home Marley, a wiggly yellow furball of a puppy. Life would never be the same.

Marley quickly grew into a barreling, ninety-seven-pound streamroller of a Labrador retriever, a dog like no other. He crashed through screen doors, gouged throug

Recommended by Craig Pearce.

Craig Pearce

Prior to getting into books about business and startups, I read mostly fictional books, and mostly about dogs (think Marley and Me or The Art of Racing In The Rain). [source]

3

Sparky!

Jenny Offill, Chris Appelhans

4.7

The ingenious author of 17 Things I'm Not Allowed to Do Anymore and a brilliant illustrator and production designer of the Coraline movie have created a hilarious, touching picture book perfect for young animal lovers. Like the Caldecott Medal-winning Officer Buckle and Gloria, Sparky stars a pet who has more to offer than meets the eye. When our narrator orders a sloth through the mail, the creat

Cover unavailable

4

Children Make Terrible Pets

Peter Brown

4.7

Meet Lucy. Meet Lucy's Pet.

She calls him Squeaker.

Lucy and Squeaker have the best day ever. Until things start to go wrong...

Do children make terrible pets? What do you think?

5

Strictly No Elephants

Lisa Mantchev, Taeeun Yoo

4.7

When the local Pet Club won’t admit a boy’s tiny pet elephant, he finds a solution—one that involves all kinds of unusual animals in this sweet and adorable picture book.

Today is Pet Club day. There will be cats and dogs and fish, but strictly no elephants are allowed. The Pet Club doesn’t understand that pets come in all shapes and sizes, just like friends. Now it is time for a boy and his tiny p

6

A Dog's Purpose (A Dog's Purpose, #1)

W. Bruce Cameron

4.6

The beloved fifty-two week New York Times bestseller by W. Bruce Cameron, A Dog's Purpose is now a major motion picture from Amblin Entertainment in association with Walden Media and distributed by Universal Pictures! This remarkable story of one endearing dog's search for his purpose is directed by Academy Award-nominated director Lasse Hallström and stars Dennis Quaid, Britt Robertson, Josh Gad,

7

Not Norman: A Goldfish Story

Kelly Bennett, Noah Z. Jones

4.6

"A sweet story that could be used as a springboard to discussion of the pitfalls of making snap judgments about pets — or people." — SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL

Norman the goldfish isn’t what this little boy had in mind. He wanted a different kind of pet — one that could run and catch, or chase string and climb trees, a soft furry pet to sleep on his bed at night. Definitely not Norman. But when he trie

8

The Pigeon Wants a Puppy!

Mo Willems

4.6

He really, really, REALLY wants one. He'll take really good care of it! What's the matter--don't you want him to be happy? The latest book in the best-selling Pigeon series is the funniest one yet.

9

Alfie: (The Turtle That Disappeared)

Thyra Heder

4.5

Nia loves Alfie, her pet turtle. But he’s not very soft, he doesn’t do tricks, and he’s pretty quiet. Sometimes she forgets he’s even there! That is until the night before Nia’s seventh birthday, when Alfie disappears! Then, in an innovative switch in point of view, we hear Alfie’s side of the story. He didn’t leave Nia—he’s actually searching for the perfect birthday present for his dear friend.

10

This Moose Belongs to Me

Oliver Jeffers

4.5

Wilfred owned a moose. He hadn't always owned a moose. The moose came to him a while ago and he knew, just KNEW, that it was meant to be his. He thought he would call him Marcel.

Most of the time Marcel is very obedient, abiding by the many rules of How to Be a Good Pet. But imagine Wilfred's surprise when one dark day, while deep in the woods, someone else claims the moose as their own...

11

What Pet Should I Get?

Dr. Seuss

4.5

A never-before-seen picture book by Dr. Seuss!

This never-ever-before-seen picture book by Dr. Seuss about making up one’s mind is the literary equivalent of buried treasure! What happens when a brother and sister visit a pet store to pick a pet? Naturally, they can’t choose just one! The tale captures a classic childhood moment — choosing a pet — and uses it to illuminate a life lesson: that it is

12

Big Cat, Little Cat

Elisha Cooper

4.5

There was a cat
who lived alone.
Until the day
a new cat came . . .

And so a story of friendship begins, following two cats through their days, months, and years until one day, the older cat has to go. And he doesn’t come back.

This is a poignant story, told in measured text and bold black-and-white illustrations about life and the act of moving on.

13

Truman

Jean Reidy and Lucy Ruth Cummins

4.5

An NPR Favorite Book of 2019
A New York Times Best Children’s book of 2019
A Kirkus Reviews Best Picture Book of 2019
A School Library Journal Best Picture Book of 2019

"An enchanting tale of bravery, heroism, and undying devotion." —The New York Times Book Review

After his best friend Sarah leaves for her first day of school, a tortoise named Truman goes on an adventure across the living room and lear

14

Homer's Odyssey

Gwen Cooper

4.5

Once in nine lives, something extraordinary happens...

The last thing Gwen Cooper wanted was another cat. She already had two, not to mention a phenomenally underpaying job and a recently broken heart. Then Gwen’s veterinarian called with a story about a three-week-old eyeless kitten who’d been abandoned. It was love at first sight.

Everyone warned that Homer would always be an "underachiever," nev

15

Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World

Vicki Myron

4.5

How much of an impact can an animal have? How many lives can one cat touch? How is it possible for an abandoned kitten to transform a small library, save a classic American town, and eventually become famous around the world? You can't even begin to answer those questions until you hear the charming story of Dewey Readmore Books, the beloved library cat of Spencer, Iowa.

Dewey's story starts in the

16

Some Pets

Angela DiTerlizzi, Brendan Wenzel

4.5

The duo that brought you the “bright” and “breezy” (Booklist) Some Bugs is back with a vibrant companion book that’s packed with your favorite pets.

Some pets sit.
Some pets stay.
Some pets fetch,
And some pets play.

Come one, come all, to the pet show! With dogs and cats, horses and chickens, hamsters and chinchillas—and many, many more!—this book celebrates animal companions of all shapes and size

17

The Other End of the Leash: Why We Do What We Do Around Dogs

Patricia B. McConnell

4.5

The Other End of the Leash shares a revolutionary, new perspective on our relationship with dogs, focusing on our behavior in comparison with that of dogs. An applied animal behaviorist and dog trainer with more than twenty years experience, Dr. Patricia McConnell looks at humans as just another interesting species, and muses about why we behave the way we do around our dogs, how dogs might interp

18

The Rough Patch

Brian Lies

4.5

Evan and his dog do everything together, from eating ice cream to caring for their award-winning garden, which grows big and beautiful. One day the unthinkable happens: Evan’s dog dies. Heartbroken, Evan destroys the garden and everything in it. The ground becomes overgrown with prickles and thorns, and Evan embraces the chaos.

But beauty grows in the darkest of places, and when a twisting vine tur

Cover unavailable

19

Dear Zoo: A Lift-the-Flap Book

Rod Campbell

4.4

A child writes to the zoo for a pet. The zoo send a series of unsuitable pets, revealed behind flaps in the form of crates and packing cases. These animals are all sent back for different reasons, except the last one, which is perfect!

Dear Zoo is twenty-five years old -- and still as popular as ever!

And with an updated look, this children's classic is sure to delight a new generation of readers!

20

If I Had a Gryphon

Vikki VanSickle, Cale Atkinson

4.4

Sam just got a hamster for a pet. She's not really impressed. The hamster isn't very exciting--he mostly eats and sleeps and gets his shavings wet. BORING!

After reading a book about mythological creatures, Sam gets some ideas for more exciting pets. But she soon realizes that taking care of these magical beasts might not be as wonderful as she though. Unicorns are shy, gryphons scare the dogs at t

21

Pax

Sara Pennypacker and Jon Klassen

4.4

National Book Award Longlist • New York Times Bestseller • An Amazon Best Book of the Year

Finally in paperback! This handsome edition features French flaps.

From bestselling and award-winning author Sara Pennypacker comes a beautifully wrought, utterly compelling novel about the powerful relationship between a boy and his fox. Pax is destined to become a classic, beloved for generations to come.

P

22

Charlotte and the Rock

Stephen W. Martin, Samantha Cotterill

4.4

An unexpected friendship forms between a girl and her pet rock in this charming story that's perfect for fans of What Pet Should I Get?

Charlotte has always really wanted a pet, so when her parents present her with one for her birthday she expects a cat, dog, or maybe a bird. Instead, she receives a rock. Rocks can't cuddle, fetch, or even help her eat her vegetables, but that doesn't stop Charlot

23

Prudence Wants a Pet

Cathleen Daly, Stephen Michael King

4.4

Prudence wants a pet. Desperately.

“No,” says Dad, “pets cost too much to keep.”
“No,” says Mom, “pets make noise.”

But Prudence is determined. She finds her own pet. It is a…branch. But Branch isn't exactly the pet of her dreams, and neither are Twig, Mr. Round (a car tire), or her baby brother Milo.

Poor Prudence. Will she ever find the perfect pet?

24

Because of Winn-Dixie

Kate DiCamillo

4.3

Kate DiCamillo's beloved, best-selling debut novel is now available in a paperback digest edition.

Kate DiCamillo's first published novel, like Winn-Dixie himself, immediately proved to be a keeper—a New York Times bestseller, a Newbery Honor winner, the inspiration for a popular film, and most especially, a cherished classic that touches the hearts of readers of all ages. It's now available in a p

Cover unavailable

25

A Unicorn Named Sparkle (A Unicorn Named Sparkle #1)

Amy Young

4.3

When Lucy sees an ad in the newspaper for a unicorn, she sends in her twenty-five cents and waits four to six long weeks for her very own unicorn to arrive. She imagines the flowers that she'll braid into his beautiful pink mane, and she even picks the perfect name for him: Sparkle. But when Sparkle arrives, his ears are too long, his horn is too short, he smells funny--and oh, he has fleas. Lucy

26

Can I Be Your Dog?

Troy Cummings

4.3

A dog adoption story told through letters--from the dog, himself!

Arfy, a homeless mutt lives in a box in an alley. Arfy writes to every person on Butternut Street about what a great pet he'd make. His letters to prospective owners share that he's house broken! He has his own squeaky bone! He can learn to live with cats! But, no one wants him. Won't anyone open their heart--and home--to a lonesome

27

A Pet for Petunia

Paul Schmid

4.3

Meet Petunia.

More than anything, Petunia wants a pet.

I'll feed my pet every day, she promises her parents. I'll take her for walks. I'll read stories to her and draw her pictures.

Petunia knows she can take care of a pet, but what happens when the pet she most desires is a skunk?

28

Gilbert Goldfish Wants a Pet

Kelly DiPucchio, Bob Shea

4.3

Gilbert has almost everything his fishy heart could desire: a castle, a chest filled with treasure, and food that falls from the sky. But there's one BIG thing missing from his life: a pet. And so begins Gilbert's harrowing search for the perfect fishbowl companion - a search filled with loud barking, quiet buzzing, and one giant whiskered surprise!

With snappy, rhythmic text and the most irresist

29

Harry the Dirty Dog

Gene Zion and Margaret Bloy Graham

4.3

There's never been another dog as delightful–or dirty–as Harry.

This lovable white dog with black spots (or black dog with white spots) has charmed children for fifty years, and we are celebrating with an anniversary edition. This childhood favourite is perfect for reading aloud before going to bed or avoiding a bath.

30

The Best Pet of All

David LaRochelle, Hanako Wakiyama

4.3

This boy-wants-dog story with a twist is both snappy and endearing. The little boy's mother won't let him have a dog. Dogs are too messy and too loud. But she says he can have a dragon for a pet - if he can find one. Enter the coolest - but naughtiest - pet ever. The dragon is messier and louder than any dog. And he will not leave. How will the boy ever get a dog now? Wry, stylish illustrations wi

31

All Creatures Great and Small (All Creatures Great and Small, #1)

James Herriot

4.3

The classic multimillion copy bestseller

Delve into the magical, unforgettable world of James Herriot, the world's most beloved veterinarian, and his menagerie of heartwarming, funny, and tragic animal patients.

For over forty years, generations of readers have thrilled to Herriot's marvelous tales, deep love of life, and extraordinary storytelling abilities. For decades, Herriot roamed the remote,

32

Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog

Ted Kerasote

4.3

While on a camping trip, Ted Kerasote met a dog—a Labrador mix—who was living on his own in the wild. They became attached to each other, and Kerasote decided to name the dog Merle and bring him home. There, he realized that Merle's native intelligence would be diminished by living exclusively in the human world. He put a dog door in his house so Merle could live both outside and in.

A deeply touch

33

Stay: A Girl, a Dog, a Bucket List

Kate Klise, M. Sarah Klise

4.3

Eli the dog has been with Astrid since her parents brought her home from the hospital as a baby. Now Astrid is getting older, and so is Eli. Before he slows down too much, Astrid wants to make fun memories with him. So she makes a bucket list for Eli, which includes experiences such as eating with him in a restaurant, and taking him down a slide at the playground.

But in the end, what is most impor

34

Clifford the Big Red Dog

Norman Bridwell

4.3

Emily Elizabeth describes the activities she enjoys with her very big red dog and how they take care of each other.

35

Me and My Dragon

David Biedrzycki

4.3

A boy lists all the reasons he wants a pet dragon and describes how he would take care of it. Includes tips for selection (why you shouldn't choose a three-headed dragon), discipline (what to do if your dragon misbehaves), and diet (why you should never give a dragon broccoli).

36

The Octopuppy

Martin McKenna

4.2

Meet Edgar. He's determined to train his new puppy. Sit. Stay. Fetch. What could go wrong? It's just that Edgar's dog happens to be an octopus. A particularly brilliant octopus at that. Meet Jarvis. Edgar's life is about to change forever.

37

Cesar's Way: The Natural, Everyday Guide to Understanding and Correcting Common Dog Problems

Cesar Millan and Melissa Jo Peltier

4.2

Cesar Millan--nationally recognized dog expert--helps you see the world through the eyes of your dog so you can finally eliminate problem behaviors.

From his appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show to his roster of celebrity clients to his reality television series, Cesar Millan is America's most sought-after dog-behavior expert. But Cesar is not a trainer in the traditional sense--his expertise lies

Cover unavailable

38

How to Train a Train

Jason Carter Eaton, John Rocco

4.2

Everything you need to know about finding, keeping, and training your very own pet train.

Finding advice on caring for a dog, a cat, a fish, even a dinosaur is easy. But what if somebody’s taste in pets runs to the more mechanical kind? What about those who like cogs and gears more than feathers and fur? People who prefer the call of a train whistle to the squeal of a guinea pig? Or maybe dream of

39

Kitten's First Full Moon

Kevin Henkes

4.2

The nationally bestselling picture book about a kitten, the moon, and a bowl of milk, written by the celebrated author and illustrator Kevin Henkes, was awarded a Caldecott Medal.

From one of the most celebrated and beloved picture book creators working in the field today comes a memorable new character and a suspenseful adventure just right for reading and sharing at home and in the classroom. It

40

I'm My Own Dog

David Ezra Stein

4.2

Many dogs have human owners. Not this dog. He fetches his own slippers, curls up at his own feet, and gives himself a good scratch. But there is one spot, in the middle of his back, that he just can’t reach. So one day, he lets a human scratch it. And the poor little fella follows him home. What can the dog do but get a leash to lead the guy around with?

41

Lola Gets a Cat

Anna McQuinn, Rosalind Beardshaw

4.2

Lola wants a cat, but Mommy says taking care of a pet is a lot of work. So Lola does her homework. At the library she finds books about cats and pet care and she and Mommy learn as much as they can. She pretends her stuffed kitty is real and practices taking care of it. When the time comes, Lola is allowed to pick out her new friend at an animal shelter. With patience and care, her kitten settles

42

The Art of Raising a Puppy

The Monks of New Skete

4.2

The Monks of New Skete THE ART OF RAISING A PUPPY The authors of the classic guide How to Be Your Dog's Best Friend now tell you everything you need to know about the crucial first months of your puppy's life. From the decision to adopt a pup through the practical steps of choosing the right breed, preparing your home, caring for your new charge, and practicing basic obedience exercises, the Monks

43

'Salem's Lot

Stephen King, Clive Barker, David Palumbo

4.2

'Salem's Lot is a small New England town with white clapboard houses, tree-lined streets, and solid church steeples. That summer in 'salem's Lot was a summer of homecoming and return; spring burned out and the land lying dry, crackling underfoot. Late that summer, Ben Mears returned to 'salem's Lot hoping to cast out his own devils and found instead a new, unspeakable horror.

A stranger had also co

Recommended by Bethanye McKinney Blount and Rae Paoletta.

Bethanye McKinney Blount

I read this for the first time when I was 10 — great parenting at work — but it was almost scarier to reread as an adult. [source]

Rae Paoletta

@sarahpaol Love this book [source]

44

A Pet for Fly Guy (Fly Guy, #15)

Tedd Arnold

4.2

What is the right pet for Fly Guy?

In the first zany, hilarious Fly Guy picture book, Buzz tries to help Fly Guy find the right pet. It seems that everyone else at the park has a pet, so Fly Guy wants one, too. A dog licked Fly Guy. A frog chased Fly Guy. A cricket was too jumpy. Who will be the best pet for Fly Guy?

Kids will love Fly Guy and Buzz's wacky search for the right pet. Tedd Arnold's sig

Cover unavailable

45

Hi! Fly Guy (Fly Guy, #1)

Tedd Arnold

4.2

When Buzz captures a fly to enter in The Amazing Pet Show, his parents and the judges tell him that a fly cannot be a pet, but Fly Guy proves them wrong.

46

My Pet Wants a Pet

Elise Broach, Eric Barclay

4.2

Once there was a boy who wanted something to take care of. Something of his very own. He begged his mother for a puppy. Until she said YES!
The boy loved his puppy. He fed him and played with him and cuddled him. But soon, the dog wanted something to take care of--something of his very own. So the dog gets a pet cat; then the cat gets a pet bird; the bird gets a pet worm; the worm gets a pet flea

47

Spencer's New Pet

Jessie Sima

4.2

From the creator of Not Quite Narwhal comes a classic tale of a boy and his dog—except in this unique story, one of them is a balloon!

When Spencer gets a new pet, he’s excited to do all the things that pets do—taking walks in the park, going to the vet, and attending parties together.

There’s just one hitch: Spencer’s new pet is a balloon.

And that means No. Sharp. Objects.

No drooling dogs at the pa

48

What Pet To Get?

Emma Dodd

4.2

A common kid question leads to uncommon results in this terrifically charming picture book!

Jack's mother says he can choose a pet . . . but what pet to get? An elephant? (So difficult to take on vacation.) A polar bear? (It wouldn’t like the central heating.) What about a Tyrannosaurus Rex? (Unfortunately, it’s been extinct for 65 million years.) The gatefold on the last page reveals Jack’s final

49

How to Raise the Perfect Dog: Through Puppyhood and Beyond

Cesar Millan

4.2

From the bestselling author and star of National Geographic Channel's Dog Whisperer, the only resource you’ll need for raising a happy, healthy dog.

For the millions of people every year who consider bringing a puppy into their lives–as well as those who have already brought a dog home–Cesar Millan, the preeminent dog behavior expert, says, "Yes, you can raise the perfect dog!" It all starts with

50

Tiny But Mighty: Kitten Lady's Guide to Saving the Most Vulnerable Felines

Hannah Shaw

4.2

*A New York Times Bestseller*
#1 National Bestseller
Indie Bestseller

From Kitten Lady, the professional kitten rescuer, humane educator, animal advocate, and owner of the popular Instagram @kittenxlady comes the definitive book on saving the most vulnerable--and adorable--feline population: newborn kittens.

Hannah Shaw, better known as Kitten Lady, has dedicated her life to saving the tiniest felin

Recommended by Kristin Bauer.

Kristin Bauer

TINY BUT MIGHTY! 💪😻Such a lovely book! @kittenxlady spends her life saving he most vulnerable kittens!!! This book is everything great in the world! ❤️ Its all heart and what we need more of today! The perfect… https://t.co/5qxx4zJJfw [source]

51

This Book Just Ate My Dog!

Richard Byrne

4.2

When her dog disappears into the gutter of the book, Bella calls for help. But when the helpers disappear too, Bella realizes it will take more than a tug on the leash to put things right. Cleverly using the physicality of the book, This book just ate my dog! is inventive, ingenious, and just pure kid-friendly fun!

52

Silly Doggy!

Adam Stower

4.2

One day, Lily saw something WONDERFUL in her garden. It had four legs, a tail, and a big, wet nose...

and Lily had ALWAYS wanted one!

53

I Wanna Iguana

Karen Kaufman Orloff, David Catrow

4.2

Alex just has to convince his mom to let him have an iguana, so he puts his arguments in writing. He promises that she won't have to feed it or clean its cage or even see it if she doesn't want to. Of course Mom imagines life with a six-foot-long iguana eating them out of house and home. Alex's reassurances: It takes fifteen years for an iguana to get that big. I'll be married by then and probably

54

Rain Reign

Ann M. Martin

4.2

Rose Howard has Asperger’s syndrome, and an obsession with homonyms (even her name is a homonym). She gave her dog Rain a name with two homonyms (Reign, Rein), which, according to Rose’s rules of homonyms, is very special. Rain was a lost dog Rose’s father brought home. Rose and Rain are practically inseparable. And they are often home alone, as Rose’s father spends most evenings at a bar, and doe

55

Pet Sematary

Stephen King, Michael C. Hall, et al

4.2

'This is an alternate Cover Edition for ASIN: B00K3NEE56. When the Creeds move into a beautiful old house in rural Maine, it all seems too good to be true: physician father, beautiful wife, charming little daughter, adorable infant son-and now an idyllic home. As a family, they've got it all...right down to the friendly car. But the nearby woods hide a blood-chilling truth-more terrifying than dea

56

Niblet & Ralph

Zachariah OHora

4.2

Two pet cats switch places in this comically sweet story of mistaken identity, from beloved author-illustrator Zachariah OHora.

Niblet and Ralph may look a lot alike, but they are very different. Niblet loves noshing on crunchy potato chips. Ralph loves putting on headphones and jamming to his favorite records. But both cats have one thing in common: They love being friends and waving to each other

57

Small in the City

Sydney Smith

4.2

It can be a little scary to be small in a big city, but this child has some good advice for a very special friend in need.

When you're small in the city, people don't see you, and loud sounds can scare you, and knowing what to do is sometimes hard. But this little kid knows what it's like, and knows the neighborhood. That makes for some pretty good advice for an even smaller friend.

Like, alleys c

58

Blue

Laura Vaccaro Seeger

4.2

How many shades of blue are there?

There’s the soft blue of a baby’s cherished blanket, the ocean blue of a romp in the waves, the chilly blue of a cold winter’s walk in the snow, and the true blue of the bond that exists between children and animals.

In this simple, sumptuously illustrated companion to Caldecott Honor Book Green, award-winning artist Laura Vaccaro Seeger turns her attention to the

59

Memoirs of a Goldfish

Devin Scillian, Tim Bowers

4.2

With his bowl to himself, Goldfish loves his life...until one day...
A personal account from a goldfish on life in his bowl as other intruders crowd him.

60

Inside of a Dog: What Dogs See, Smell, and Know

Alexandra Horowitz

4.2

Alexandra Horowitz offers readers a fresh look at the world of dogs--from the dog's point of view.

The bestselling book that asks what dogs know and how they think, now in paperback.

The answers will surprise and delight you as Alexandra Horowitz, a cognitive scientist, explains how dogs perceive their daily worlds, each other, and that other quirky animal, the human.

Horowitz introduces the reader

61

Where the Red Fern Grows

Wilson Rawls

4.2

A loving threesome, they ranged the dark hills and river bottoms of Cherokee country. Old Dan had the brawn. Little Ann had the brains, and Billy had the will to make them into the finest hunting team in the valley. Glory and victory were coming to them, but sadness waited too. Where the Red Fern Grows is an exciting tale of love and adventure you'll never forget.

62

A Ball for Daisy

Chris Raschka

4.1

Winner of the 2012 Randolph Caldecott Medal

This New York Times Bestseller and New York Times Best Illustrated Book relates a story about love and loss as only Chris Rashcka can tell it. Any child who has ever had a beloved toy break will relate to Daisy's anguish when her favorite ball is destroyed by a bigger dog. In the tradition of his nearly wordless picture book Yo! Yes?, Caldecott Medalist C

63

The Lost Dogs: Michael Vick's Dogs and Their Tale of Rescue and Redemption

Jim Gorant

4.1

An inspiring story of survival and our powerful bond with man's best friend, in the aftermath of the nation's most notorious case of animal cruelty.

Animal lovers and sports fans were shocked when the story broke about NFL player Michael Vick's brutal dog fighting operation. But what became of the dozens of dogs who survived? As acclaimed writer Jim Gorant discovered, their story is the truly new

64

Oh No, George!

Chris Haughton

4.1

Bold, hilarious artwork captures the innocent charm of affable George, a dog who is trying to be good — with disastrous results.

George is a dog with all the best intentions. And his owner, Harry, has all the best hopes that George will be a well-behaved dog when he leaves him alone for the day. But when George spies a delicious cake sitting on the kitchen table, his resolve starts to waver. You se

65

My Pet Book

Bob Staake

4.1

Award-winning author-illustrator Bob Staake has created a rollicking picture book about a boy and his most unusual pet!

Most pets are cats and dogs, but what happens when a boy wants a different kind of pet, one that doesn’t meow or bark? Bob Staake’s exuberant tale of a little boy and the pet of his dreams will appeal to anyone whose best friends are . . . books! Books make the perfect pets, the

66

Officer Buckle and Gloria

Peggy Rathmann

4.1

"Besides the beguiling story, the affable illustrations of the smiling Gloria, the accidental mayhem in the background, and the myriad safety tips -- such as 'always pull the toothpick out of your sandwhich' and 'never lick a stop sign in the winter' -- add to the enjoyment. A glorious picture book." -- The Horn Book"Rathmann is a quick rising star in the world of chidren's books. In this book, sh

67

Bark, George

Jules Feiffer

4.1

"Bark, George," says George's mother, and George goes: "Meow," which definitely isn't right, because George is a dog.

And so is his mother, who repeats, "Bark, George." And George goes, "Quack, quack."

What's going on with George? Find out in this hilarious new picture book from Jules Feiffer.

68

Good Boy, Fergus!

David Shannon

4.1

Follow Fergus as he experiences the perfect doggy day—well, except for his bath, of course! From chasing cats and motorcycles to being scratched on his favorite "tickle spot," David Shannon's newest sweet and silly character will inspire young readers to laugh out loud at his mischievous antics. Fans of Shannon's previous books will love reading all about this naughty but lovable dog!

69

Animals in Translation: Using the Mysteries of Autism to Decode Animal Behavior

Temple Grandin, Catherine Johnson

4.1

Temple Grandin's "Animals in Translation" speaks in the clear voice of a woman who emerged from the other side of autism, bringing with her an extraordinary message about how animals think and feel.Temple's professional training as an animal scientist and her history as a person with autism have given her a perspective like that of no other expert in the field. Standing at the intersection of auti

Recommended by Simon Baron-Cohen.

Simon Baron-Cohen

I think this book is unusual for lots of reasons. I found it really gripping. First of all, it is written by someone with autism. For me, as a scientist who has been looking at autism from the outside, I felt there is so much we can learn from her because she has actually got the condition, and is able to tell us what the world looks like from her point of view. [source]

70

I Don't Want a Cool Cat!

Emma Dodd

4.1

In this hilarious, heartfelt picture book, one little girl discovers just how difficult it can be to find the perfect pet. Along the way, she meets a zany mix of cats with distinct personalities, but none of them are right for her! After a comical cat chase, she finally finds a special one to call her very own. In this follow-up to I Don't Want a Posh Dog!, Emma Dodd reminds readers that, while th

71

Gaston

Kelly DiPucchio and Christian Robinson

4.1

72

Zak George's Dog Training Revolution: The Complete Guide to Raising the Perfect Pet with Love

Zak George

4.1

A REVOLUTIONARY WAY TO RAISE AND TRAIN YOUR DOG

Zak George is a new type of dog trainer. A dynamic YouTube star and Animal Planet personality with a fresh approach, Zak helps you tailor training to your dog’s unique traits and energy level—leading to quicker results and a much happier pet.
For the first time, Zak has distilled the information from his hundreds of videos and experience with thousand

73

One Cool Friend

Toni Buzzeo, David Small

4.1

On a momentous visit to the aquarium, Elliot discovers his dream pet: a penguin. It's just proper enough for a straight-laced boy like him. And when he asks his father if he may have one (please and thank you), his father says yes. Elliot should have realized that Dad probably thought he meant a stuffed penguin and not a real one . . . Clever illustrations and a wild surprise ending make this sly,

74

A Dog's Journey

W. Bruce Cameron

4.1

Soon to be a Major Motion Picture!

Audiences are invited along on A Dog’s Journey, the next chapter of the beloved bestselling series by author W. Bruce Cameron. The family film told from the dog’s perspective serves as the much-anticipated follow-up to the soulful story of one devoted dog who finds the meaning of his own existence through the lives of the humans he teaches to laugh and love.

After

75

Miss Hazeltine's Home for Shy and Fearful Cats

Alicia Potter, Birgitta Sif

4.1

A tale with many tails, perfect for cat lovers everywhere!

Miss Hazeltine is opening a very special school for shy and fearful cats. They come from all over, and Miss Hazeltine gives them lessons in everything, from “Bird Basics” to “How Not to Fear the Broom.”

The most timid of all is Crumb. He cowers in a corner. Miss Hazeltine doesn’t mind. But when she gets in trouble and only Crumb knows where

76

A Street Cat Named Bob: How One Man and His Cat Found Hope on the Streets

James Bowen

4.1

The moving, uplifting true story of an unlikely friendship between a man on the streets and the ginger cat who adopts him and helps him heal his life.

77

Say Hello to Zorro!

Carter Goodrich

4.1

Mister Bud is a dog of routine. He has wake up time, nap time, rest time, dinner time, etc. And everyone knows to follow his schedule.

Then disaster strikes.

A stranger comes home at "make a fuss time" and throws everything off! Zorro is little bit bossy and Mister Bud wants nothing to do with him. But when the dogs discover they like the same things (like chasing the cat and napping), everything b

78

Goldfish on Vacation

Sally Lloyd-Jones, Leo Espinosa

4.1

H, Little O, and Baby Em are stuck in the city for the summer with only their pet goldfish--Barracuda, Patch, and Fiss--for company. It's looking like it might be a pretty boring vacation, but one day, something exciting happens. Someone starts fixing up the old fountain down the street--the one Grandpa says horses used to drink from before everyone had cars--and a sign appears: "Calling All Goldf

79

Me Want Pet!

Tammi Sauer, Bob Shea

4.1

Cave Boy wants a pet more than anything. Can he find one that the whole family will agree on?

Cave Boy has lots of things. Rocks. Sticks. A club. But no pet! Cave Boy decides he must have a pet, but his parents object. He brings home animal after animal in hopes of overcoming his parents’ steadfast resistance, but his attempts are unsuccessful—until he finds a Dodo bird that is literally on the ver

80

Integrative Medicine for Dogs & Cats: Combining Nutrition, Holistic Care, and High-Tech Solutions for Longer, Healthier Lives

Gary Richter MSDVM

4.1

As a holistic veterinarian and scientist, Dr. Gary Richter helps dog and cat owners to navigate the thicket of treatment options and separate the fact from the fiction. He wants us to use what actually works, not just what Western science or alternative medicine say “should” work. This multifaceted approach to health is known as integrative medicine.

Dr. Richter examines traditional medicine from

81

I Got a New Friend

Karl Newsom Edwards

4.1

A sweet introduction to owning a pet that is perfect for readers of The Most Magnificent Thing and A Ball for Daisy.

When a little girl gets a new puppy, they have a lot to learn about each other. The new friends can be shy, messy, and sometimes get into trouble. They get lost, but they always get found. Their friendship may be a lot of work--but at the end of the day, they love each other!

Experien

82

Dogs

Emily Gravett

4.0

Gorgeous canines of every shape and size are bounding through this book. Can you choose one dog to love best of all?

83

Lost and Found Cat: The True Story of Kunkush's Incredible Journey

Doug Kuntz, Amy Shrodes, Sue Cornelison

4.0

The true story about one cat’s journey to be reunited with his war-torn family has been seen by millions of people and is now a heartwarming picture book.

When an Iraqi family is forced to flee their home, they can’t bear to leave their beloved cat, Kunkush, behind. So they carry him with them from Iraq to Greece, keeping their secret passenger hidden away.

But during the crowded boat crossing to Gr

84

The Teacher's Pet

Anica Mrose Rissi and Zachariah OHora

4.0

When a class pet proves to be more than a handful, the students agree they cannot keep him, but how will they convince their teacher, Mr. Stricter, who loves the strange creature?

On the day the tadpoles hatch, the whole class is amazed—they've never seen their teacher so excited. Mr. Stricter has always wanted a pet, so he tells the students they can keep just one. The class chooses Bruno, the sma

85

I Want a Dog

Jon Agee

4.0

A girl seeks her perfect pet at a wonderfully unusual animal shelter in this comical read-aloud by the award-winning creator of Life on Mars

The Copley County Animal Shelter has an aardvark, a lizard, a goose, a weasel, and plenty more. But do they have a puppy? The girl with her wagon is ready to adopt a dog—not an aardvark, lizard, or goose! Can the shelter manager help her to find her perfect pe

86

Aaaarrgghh! Spider!

Lydia Monks

4.0

Don’t let this lonely spider frighten you! She just wants to be a family pet—and she thinks she would make a better pet than the typical dog or cat. But every time this clever spider tries to impress her chosen family, she scares them instead, until the day she unwittingly enchants them. Aaaarrgghh! Spider! spins a lively tale about one creature’s efforts to find her place.

87

Stormy: a Story about Finding a Forever Home

Guojing

4.0

In this wordless picture book a woman visits a park and discovers a pup hiding under a bench--scruffy, scared, and alone. With gentle coaxing, the woman tries to befriend the animal, but the dog is too scared to let her near. Day after day, the woman tries--and day after day, the dog runs away. With perseverance and patience--and help from an enticing tennis ball--a tentative friendship begins. Bu

88

Paint by Sticker: Cats: Create 12 Stunning Images One Sticker at a Time!

Workman Publishing

4.0

An addictive all-ages activity for crafters and artists, Paint by Sticker: Cats includes everything you need to create twelve vibrant cat images—the stickers, the templates, the simple directions.

The Paint by Sticker series is now purrfect for cat lovers! Create gorgeous illustrations of felines in low-poly (geometric polygon shapes) style, one sticker at a time. There’s a playful ginger tabby

89

The Summer Nick Taught His Cats to Read

Curtis Manley, Kate Berube

4.0

Nominated for the South Carolina Picture Book Award
A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
A Chicago Public Library Best Book of the Year

“A marvelous debut…Sometimes it takes the right nudge to fall in love with books.” —PublishersWeekly (starred review)

“This quirky tale filled with subtle humor makes a fun read-aloud, especially for cat lovers, literacy lovers, or anyone looking for a gre

90

How Do Dinosaurs Choose Their Pets?

Jane Yolen, Mark Teague

4.0

"Can I keep it? It's so cute!" Brimming with laugh-aloud humor, enormous dinosaur children surprise their parents by bringing home a wild menagerie of highly unusual pets! What would happen if your child walked in the door with a pet tiger? Or an elephant, boa constrictor, zebra, or kangaroo? Would you smile?

Perfect for every child who has ever loved or yearned for a pet, this new uproarious book

91

Bad Dog

Mike Boldt

4.0

The differences between cats and dogs have never been funnier! In this hilarious new story from the illustrator of I Don't Want to Be a Frog, a little girl really, really wants a dog... but gets a cat instead!

"Look what I got for my birthday! A pet dog!" says a little girl holding a... cat? Rocky doesn't listen or obey like all the other dogs. (Because Rocky is a cat.) And Rocky hates her leash an

92

Dog in Charge

K. L. Going and Dan Santat

4.0

When the going gets tough, Dog . . . takes a nap

Dog can Sit.
He can Stay.
He can even Dance.
But when he's in charge, can he keep the cats in line?
All one, two, three, four, five of them?

Illustrated by Caldecott winner, Dan Santat, and packed full of slapstick silliness and utterly earnest charm, Dog will quickly wiggle his way into preschoolers' hearts.

93

Shiloh

Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

4.0

Marty will do anything to save his new friend Shiloh in this Newbery Medal–winning novel from Phillis Reynolds Naylor.

When Marty Preston comes across a young beagle in the hills behind his home, it's love at first sight—and also big trouble. It turns out the dog, which Marty names Shiloh, belongs to Judd Travers, who drinks too much and has a gun—and abuses his dogs. So when Shiloh runs away from

94

Whistle for Willie

Ezra Jack Keats

4.0

This is the simple story of Peter, who longs to whistle for his dog, Willie, and persists until he does. When Whistle for Willie was first published in 1964, The New York Times wrote, "Mr. Keats's illustrations boldly, colorfully capture the child, his city world, and the shimmering heat of a summer's day."

95

Who Wants a Tortoise?

Dave Keane, K. G. Campbell

4.0

Could there be any better pet than a puppy? One young girl is about to find out. From beloved author Dave Keane and acclaimed illustrator K.G. Campbell, a laugh-out-loud story of unexpected friendship!

When the spunky, loveable narrator receives a tortoise for her birthday, instead of the cuddly puppy she’s longed for her entire life, she’s more than a little disappointed. But while her new lump

96

No Ordinary Dog: My Partner from the SEAL Teams to the Bin Laden Raid

Will Chesney

4.0

The powerful true story of a SEAL Team Six member and military dog handler, and the dog that saved his life.

Two dozen Navy SEALs descended on Osama bin Laden's compound in May 2011. After the mission, only one name was made public: Cairo, a Belgian Malinois and military working dog. This is Cairo's story, and that of his handler, Will Chesney, a member of SEAL Team Six whose life would be irrevoca

97

Pet Show!

Ezra Jack Keats

4.0

How can you enter a pet show when your pet runs away? That's the question Archie faces when he can't find his cat to enter in the neighborhood pet show. Fortunately, he does some fast thinking to win a prize in this beloved classic from award-winning author-illustrator Ezra Jack Keats.

98

Cat Knit

Jacob Grant

4.0

Cat and Yarn are the best of friends. They have so much fun playing together, the two are inseparable.

Until the day Girl takes Yarn away.

When Yarn Returns, he is completely changed, no longer Cat's bright and rolly friend. Cat is mad!

Soon, Cat begins to miss his best friend, and he just might realize that a little change isn't so bad after all.

99

Land Shark

Beth Ferry, Ben Mantle

4.0

The only thing Bobby wants for his birthday is a pet shark. So you can imagine his disappointment when his parents get him...a puppy. Everyone knows shark lovers can never become dog lovers. Or can they? Full of humor and heart, this book explores the idea that sometimes, getting exactly what you don't want turns out to be exactly what you need.

100

Melvin and the Boy

Lauren Castillo

4.0

When a little boy sees a turtle basking in the sun at the park, he thinks he's found the perfect pet. But when they get home, the boy soon discovers that the only time the turtle comes out of his shell is at bath time. Is it possible that the turtle would be happiest back in the pond? After all, it's always bath time there!

Lauren Castillo's beautiful art gives this gentle story about finding the r