Chester and Gus - Hardcover

McGovern, Cammie

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0062330683 ISBN 13: 9780062330680

Publisher: HarperCollins, 2017

Synopsis

Critically acclaimed author Cammie McGovern presents a heartwarming and humorous middle grade novel about the remarkable bond that forms between an aspiring service dog and an autistic boy in need of a friend. “Joyful, inspiring, and completely winning, Chester and Gus is unforgettable,” proclaimed Katherine Applegate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Newbery Medal winner The One and Only Ivan.

Chester has always wanted to become a service dog. When he fails his certification test, though, it seems like that dream will never come true—until a family adopts him. They want him to be a companion for their ten-year-old son, Gus, who has autism. But Gus acts so differently than anyone Chester has ever met. He never wants to pet Chester, and sometimes he doesn’t even want Chester in the room. Chester’s not sure how to help Gus since this isn’t exactly the job he trained for—but he’s determined to figure it out. Because after all, Gus is now his person.

In the spirit of beloved classics like Because of Winn-Dixie, Shiloh, and Old Yeller, Cammie McGovern’s heartfelt novel—told from Chester’s point of view—explores the extraordinary friendship between a child and a dog with a poignant and modern twist.

About this title

About the Author

Cammie McGovern is the author of Say What You Will as well as the adult novels Neighborhood Watch, Eye Contact, and The Art of Seeing. Cammie is also one of the founders of Whole Children, a resource center that runs after-school classes and programs for children with special needs. She lives in Amherst, Massachusetts, with her husband and three children.

Review

Praise for CHESTER AND GUS: “In this delightful novel, Cammie McGovern has somehow managed to channel, with absolute perfection, the endearing voice of an aspiring service dog named Chester. Joyful, inspiring, and completely winning, Chester and Gus is unforgettable.” (Katherine Applegate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Newbery Medal winner The One and Only Ivan)

“Beautifully imagined and deeply affecting, Cammie McGovern’s sensitive portrait of one resilient family and their very special dog demonstrates that the best lives are lived when differences are cherished.” (Leslie Connor, award-winning author of Waiting for Normal and All Rise for the Honorable Perry T. Cook)

“The quintessential book about a boy and his dog—perfectly beautiful.” (Huffington Post)

“[Readers] will be charmed by Chester’s warmth and loyalty.” (Publishers Weekly)

“Gus’ gradual, subtle interactions with his classmates ring true and sympathetic.” (Kirkus Reviews)

Praise for JUST MY LUCK: “I loved this portrait of a young boy struggling to find his role in a family determined not to be defined by their differences. Benny’s brave story, told with wry humor, is inspirational.” (Ann M. Martin, New York Times bestselling author of Rain Reign)

“In narrator Benny, readers find a resilient and very observant 9-year-old who accepts those around him with their strengths and shortcomings alike. His story is insightful and inspirational.” (Kirkus Reviews)

“McGovern’s thoughtful depiction of a family facing difficult situations without fracturing, coupled with a gentle message about not being too hard on oneself, will surely speak to middle schoolers with their own slate of worries.” (Publishers Weekly)

“A heart-filled story of a likable boy who doesn’t realize that his natural gifts are recognizable and valued by a supportive family. There are many moments that will ring true to middle grade readers: feeling anxious about friendships, wanting to be noticed, and trying to do the right thing.” (School Library Journal)

“McGovern’s observations about ordinary-seeming life and about the people around us, about small acts of kindness and healing and forgiveness, are perceptive and thought-provoking.” (The Horn Book)

About this edition

• Publisher: HarperCollins
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 0062330683
• ISBN 13: 9780062330680
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 272