Love That Dog

“So much depends

upon

a blue car

splattered with mud

speeding down the road.” 

― Sharon Creech, Love That Dog

Love That Dog, by Sharon Creech, is a story about a boy named Jack.  Jack, who claims he dislikes poetry, responds to poems he encounters and experiences he has in class in the form of a story hidden as poetry.  As his teacher requires him to complete poetry assignments and introduces him to poems written by an author whose poems he respects and admires, Jack's perception of poetry begins to change and evolve. Jack's initial refusal of acceptance of poetry grows throughout the story to become a story of acceptance, growth, and inspiration.  

This book breaks down some of the pre-conceptions and stereotypes of poetry.  Sharon Creech teaches the reader that poems are more than confusing words and strange ideas, and that poetry is not just for girls.  The main character, Jack, is relatable to readers or all ages, especially those who have an initial hesitation toward the idea of poetry.  As you dive into the book, you realize that this is much more than a story of a boy who changes his ideas about poetry.  It is about a boy who has a story to tell, captured beautifully through his newly discovered poetic expression.  

People of all ages will enjoy this book.  I have found that this book is the perfect introduction to poetry with my sixth graders.  Similar to Jack's story, the moment the word "poetry" escapes my lips in my classroom, the initial reaction is a sea of "Yesssssssss!" from all of the girls, and a collective moan from all of the boys.  Love That Dog challenges this reaction, by drawing in boys and girls to Jack's story.  As we read, students begin to question their own understanding and accepted ideas about poetry.  The character and context is relatable to students, both male and female, and the themes and ideas are relatable to people of all ages.  

The book is rather short, and because it is written as a story disguised as poems, the reader moves through the book rather quickly.  The book maintains a lighthearted, humorous mood throughout the story, however, as Jack's story unfolds, the reader discovers the hidden joy and tragedy that lies beneath.  This story is not only well-written, but it leaves a lasting impression on the reader that begins the moment you start that lasts long after you are finished.

Sarah Schloss