Description
A powerful debut novel about a boy who must face his past before finding a way to move forward.
For thirteen-year-old Jakob, the summer is looking pretty bleak. His only friend has moved away and no one else seems to have any time for him — except the girl who lives downstairs. But she's a little weird. Then again, so is Jakob. A few months ago, he was in a car accident that killed both his parents, and though he can't remember exactly what happened, he can't stop turning it over in his mind. No wonder people leave him alone.
Then out of nowhere, a stray dog befriends Jakob. Together they begin to roam the city streets by night, discovering an exhilarating secret world where they can both taste a new kind of freedom. But as their nocturnal adventures take Jakob farther and farther away from the safety of home, the truth of that awful night begins to emerge.
Will he be strong enough to face it — and who will be there for him when he does?
Exploring the heartbreaking loneliness of grief with sensitive assurance, Nobody's Dog is a powerful and uplifting tale about family, love and survival, and finding friendship in the most unexpected places.
Prizes
- OLA Silver Birch Award, FictionShort-listed 2014
- Rocky Mountain Book Award (Alberta Children's Choice)Short-listed 2014
- Best Books for Kids and Teens, Canadian Children's Book CentreCommended 2013
Review Quotes
"Ria Voros has done a really good job of exploring grief in a very real way . . . there is tons here to think about, even as you're busy enjoying a darn good dog story . . . I would have loved this book when I was a kid." —CBC British Columbia
"Nanaimo resident Ria Voros tackles grief and loss through the eyes of a 13-year-old and his canine companion in her powerful debut novel, Nobody's Dog." —Nanaimo Daily News
"There are no drastic changes, no wise mentor figure appears to supply guidance or save the day . . . There is, however, a good deal of underlying affection between characters and several attempts towards friendship, healing, and communication, again, as in real life." —CM Magazine
