Any Pet Will Do

Martha Lamon is a freelance writer and researcher based in Huntsville,
Ontario.

Nine-year-old Jeremy wants a pet but isn’t sure which animal he should
choose. He also needs to prove to his parents that he’s responsible
enough to look after an animal. On his father’s suggestion, Jeremy
starts a pet-sitting business so that he can get an idea of which
animals suit him. The youngster gains experience with a variety of
animals, each of which confronts him with its own special challenges and
idiosyncrasies. Not all of Jeremy’s decisions about how to care for
the animals are wise ones (included in the book is a letter from the
author to readers pointing out some of the less-than-appropriate things
Jeremy did with the animals in his care), and he is fortunate to have
the help of his mom, dad, uncle, and best friend Murphy.

This humorous novel includes expressive drawings that are consistent
with the author’s dynamic, lively writing style. Each short,
fast-paced chapter is devoted to one pet-sitting experience in which
Jeremy learns not only about the animals in his care but also about
himself. Young readers will empathize with the overwhelming feelings of
responsibility that Jeremy feels as well as his relief when each pet
owner returns. They will also chuckle at some of the comical situations
in which Jeremy finds himself—situations that help him realize the
kind of pet he doesn’t want. In the end, it is Jeremy’s beloved
uncle who finds the pet that best suits Jeremy. Recommended.