Five reasons we love Grover finds a Home by Claire Garth
Grover Finds a Home by Claire Garth is one of the six books shortlisted for this year’s Readings Children’s Book Prize. Here are five reasons why we think it’s brilliant.
1. It’s a heartwarming and exciting story.
From the moment we meet Grover, a hungry border collie chained up in the yard of The Man with Big Boots, we’re on his side. We go through everything that Grover experiences – his daring escape, his confusing ride to the animal shelter, his first bath and then, finally, settling into his brand-new (safe) home. At every turn, Grover encounters new experiences, which makes for a really engaging read, complete with a happy ending.
2. It’s based on a real-life Grover!
Author Claire Garth based the events in Grover Finds a Home on her actual experiences working at the Sydney Dogs and Cats Home, and adopting her rescue dog, the real Grover. Grover has his own Instagram, and it’s clear he keeps busy and happy with visits to bookshops, schools, cafes (and helping Claire write books about his life, obviously…).
3. It’s perfect for newly independent readers.
Grover Finds a Home has a cracking plot with short chapters and a beautiful illustration for each one. It feels like a ‘big kid’ book without being overwhelming, and so is an ideal pick for readers who have moved on from simple junior readers, but aren’t yet ready for something that’s the length of a Roald Dahl or Enid Blyton novel. The story also makes for a fun read aloud with younger children. Plus, there are already two more Grover McBane books (Grover’s New Friends and Grover, Benji and Nanna Jean) to keep readers going.
4. It models resilience, kindness and compassion.
While Grover’s story starts with him in a difficult situation, he almost immediately displays great bravery by escaping. He’s scared and confused when picked up by the ranger, treated by the vet, put in his first bath and taken home in a car by Annie, but manages to overcome his fears with trust and courage. There’s a wonderful level of care, kindness and encouragement in this book, and readers will see how these traits can transform lives.
5. It’s full of adorable dog moments.
If you’re a dog lover you’ll enjoy every funny dog moment in this book. If you’re not, we guarantee you will STILL enjoy them. Whether it’s the serial canine escapees/inmates Clara and Ruby, the horrors of a bath full of water, the smell of ‘delicious flavour’ treats, or the joys of sticking your head out of a car window – Grover Finds A Home will make you smile.
