'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Monday 18 July 2016

Review: Grover McBane: Rescue Dog

When author Claire McBane first met the real-life Grover, he was lucky to still be alive. Horribly thin, riddled with fleas and missing clumps of hair, he'd managed to escape from his abusive former home and, fortunately, had ended up at the Sydney Dogs and Cats Home.

Claire, who worked at the animal shelter, couldn't resist. She adopted Grover and nursed him back to health. Then she was inspired to write his story. The result is the series Grover McBane: Rescue Dog, perfect for newly independent readers.

In Book 1, Grover Finds a Home, we meet Grover, follow him on his great escape, and get to enjoy his incredible relief and happiness at finding himself in a place where he's cared for and loved. We also meet Mr Tibbles, the cat in charge of the neighbourhood — and he's not impressed by the new arrival.

In Book 2, Grover's New Friends, Grover has settled right into life at his new home. He's got friends to run with at the local park and a responsible job as 'carer' for any new, frightened dogs who arrive at the animal shelter. He'd also really really love to chase Mr Tibbles … but that doesn't seem to be allowed.


Young animal lovers will adore these books. They're also a useful reminder of the responsibilities that come with having a pet. As an added bonus, a percentage of all proceeds from the sale of these books goes to support the work of the Sydney Dogs and Cats Home. Book 3 in the series, Grover, Benji and Nanna Jean, will be released in September 2016.

Title: Grover Finds a Home and Grover's New Friends
Author: Claire Garth
Illustrator: Johannes Leak
Publisher: Piccolo Nero, $12.00
Publication Date: April 2016 and June 2016
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781863958134 and 9781863958318
For ages: 6+
Type: Junior Fiction