Straydog - by Kathe Koja (Paperback)

About the Book

While volunteering at the animal shelter, Rachel meets a feral collie she names Grrl. Rachel can relate to Grrl: they're both alone and angry. When a teacher encourages Rachel to write about the dog, she finds another outlet for her pain and frustration.

Book Synopsis

Rachel is happiest when she's volunteering at the animal shelter, especially after she meets the feral collie she names Grrl; they're both angry and alone. When a teacher encourages her to write about it, Rachel finds another outlet for her pain and frustration. But writing about Grrl is much easier than teaching Grrl to trust her. And when Griffin, the new boy in school, devises a plan to spring Grrl from the shelter and bring her home, Rachel finds that the dog isn't the only one who must learn to trust.

Review Quotes

Compelling and sympathetic... Koja plumbs not only Rachel's dark and darkly funny psyche, but also what it means to be human and to make connections of love and trust. ("Publishers Weekly") The strong characters, rich detail, and well-articulated emotions, interspersed with Rachel's startling writing, make a powerful story that will resonate with many teens. ("Booklist")

"The strong characters, rich detail, and well-articulated emotions, interspersed with Rachel's startling writing, make a powerful story that will resonate with many teens."

About the Author

Kathe Koja is the author of several novels for adults. Her work has been honored by the ALA, the ASPCA and with the Bram Stoker Award. Her books have been published in seven languages and optioned for film. She lives in the Detroit area with her husband and teenage son.