The Old Dogs' Club

Hazel's exciting new plan for the Old Dogs' Club might be in trouble before it even starts. Can she find a way to get everyone to agree?

Hazel had a great idea: the Old Dogs’ Club, a program for seniors (like Hazel's own dog, Spot) who are still up for some social interaction, mental stimulation, and exercise but can’t handle the intensity of the full day care environment. She, KC, and Jonah have convinced their mothers and Hazel’s grandma to let them try it out for the summer at Dog Days, the family doggy day care.

Everyone is very excited, but as they start to plan, Hazel realizes they all have very different opinions about how to run the club. It was her idea, but Grandma vetoes a number of her suggestions, and it is starting to feel like KC and Jonah are taking over. Plus, Spot isn’t getting along with Muffin, another club member.

Mom and Hazel are heading back to Chicago at the end of the summer, so maybe it doesn’t matter that the Old Dogs’ Club isn’t turning out to be what Hazel expected. But it’s hard to give up on a great idea, even when things get tough.

A Junior Library Guild Gold Standard SelectionButler’s portrayal of preteen emotions is empathetic and recognizable, while a peek at dog training offers an appealing second layer to Hazel’s account, making for a lighthearted yet rich tale. . . . A bighearted summer story, both genuine and familiar.
—Kirkus Reviews

Butler skillfully approaches each problem in turn and young readers will be caught up in learning how the characters handle relatable life situations and complex emotions. . . . A recommended purchase. . . .
—School Library Journal