MAGGIE'S SECOND CHANCE

Based on a true story, this selection tells the story of an abandoned dog and how a group of children fought to build a shelter in order to save her.

Realistic, detailed illustrations show Maggie with longing, sorrowful eyes that follow readers through the pages. Initially, Maggie is left behind in her house, without any food and close to giving birth, when her family moves away. She is discovered just in time and brought to a pound, where she has her puppies. Maggie’s story is featured in the local papers and her pups are all adopted, but Maggie still does not have a home when a boy named Mike asks his teacher what will happen if she doesn’t find one. When the class finds out she will be euthanized, they decide to have a local shelter built. By the time they are able to get the permits, the money and the building done, Maggie has reached the end of the line. Will Mike be able to get to the pound in time to save her and the other dogs like her? Of course! Includes notes on Maggie’s and the children’s stories and Web resources to help young activists turn thought into deed.

A nice example of how empowered children can really make a difference, this earnest, heartfelt selection will inspire children to start their own efforts.