The Summer of Riley

Enjoy best-selling author Eve Bunting's moving story about the bond between a boy and his dog.

"Maybe that's one of the reasons people get dogs, to kind of close up the empty places inside them."

Eleven-year-old William never needed a friend more than now. After his parents' separation, his father's new engagement, and his grandfather's dying without any warning?adopting big, beautiful Riley is the first thing in a long time that has made him feel better. That is, until Riley innocently chases a horse.

Local law states that any animal that chases livestock must be put to sleep. Suddenly William stands to lose another thing close to him. Together with his friend Grace, William begins a campaign to reverse the county commissioners' decision. But with a community divided on the issue, and the bully Ellis Porter trying to stop them at every turn, will they be able to save Riley's life?

Celebrated author Eve Bunting shows William's determined struggle to fight for what he believes in. The Summer of Riley is an inspiring novel about learning to accept life's changes, the healing power of friendship, and the unending desire to protect those we love.

• A Boy and His Dog: To help heal from the loss of his grandfather, eleven-year-old William adopts Riley, a big, beautiful dog who instantly starts to fill the empty place in his heart.
• Saving a Pet: When Riley innocently chases a neighbor's horse, an old law sentences him to death. Now, William has to fight the whole town to save his new best friend.
• Best Friends: William isn't alone. With his best friend Grace by his side, he launches a campaign to save Riley, facing down angry neighbors and the town bully, Ellis Porter.
• Dealing with Grief: A powerful and gentle story about finding hope after loss, perfect for kids learning to navigate big changes like a grandparent's death or parents' divorce.