By Ellen Miles

Published 2006 to present

AR level: 3.5 to 4.5

Word count: about 10,000

I suggest 1st through 4th grade.

You know what kids love?

Puppies. They love puppies.

I dare you to say differently.

Puppy Place is a chapter book series for any child, because at one point or another, we all have a dog or know someone with a dog. This series creates empathy for each puppy who needs a home, while endearing us to the kids who are trying to help them find one.

I’ve read a few of these books to my kids, and my daughter has read many, many more. It’s a popular series with her friends, and I can definitely say that it’s one that will get even difficult readers hooked.

Here’s the B&N description of Buddy, which is one I read to my son:

Welcome to the Puppy Place–where every puppy finds a home!

Charles and Lizzie Peterson are very good with puppies. They want one of their own, but their mom has never been ready for them to have one full time. For now, they help take care of puppies that need to find a new home.

Lizzie helps out at the local dog shelter and the shelter’s newest arrival, Skipper, has a surprise: three newborn puppies! The Petersons decide to foster all four dogs. Will they be able to find just the right home for all of them and can Mrs. Peterson resist even these adorable pups?