by Doris Gates
First published 1948
The boy has nothing but the clothes on his back when he spots the litter of fox terrier puppies. While others overlook the smallest one, he sees something special in the tiny pup. He takes the runt home and calls him Lucky, though luck has been scarce in his young life. The two outcasts form an instant bond that changes everything. Lucky proves to be more than just a pet. The little dog brings joy, purpose, and unexpected opportunities into the boy's world. Their friendship opens doors the orphan never thought possible. What starts as a boy rescuing a unwanted puppy becomes a story of mutual salvation. Together they discover that sometimes the smallest things bring the greatest rewards.
Genres: fiction, animals, family-life, friendship, 20th-century
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking, uplifting
Tropes: found-family, underdog
Period: 20th-Century
191 pages · Hardcover · Viking Juvenile