This is a book that I checked out of my local library for my seven-year-old niece's summer visit. I have to say, it was a very enjoyable book to read aloud to her in bed every night. It involves a terrier named Trump who acts as a go-between for her human vet and the animals who come into the Pet Vet Clinic for care. In the meantime, a wounded cat with a mysterious past is brought into the clinic, and her erratic, anti-human behavior helps give her the nickname "Cranky Paws."

We enjoyed the book immensely. My niece and I felt so sorry for poor, darling Cranky Paws, and I find that the book helps teach children to feel empathy for animals. It hit a bit close to home for me because I own a calico with a similar history as Cranky Paws (but I won't give that interesting bit away for fear of giving away the story).

This was a very cute beginning story for what appears to be a series, and I hope I have the chance to run across a few more in the future.

Five paws up. ( )