The Truth About Rats (and Dogs).

Alison Mews is co-ordinator of the Centre for Instructional Services at
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Conner desperately wants a dog, but his caterer mother is obsessive about germs and adamant about her no-pets rule. When his school’s animal club volunteers at a local animal shelter Conner becomes attached to a rat called Oscar and agrees to foster him for a couple of weeks—without his parents’ permission. As Conner attempts to hide Oscar and avoid piano practice he finds allies in unexpected places, and he and his parents gain a new appreciation for each other.

Conner’s affection for Oscar and his diligence in caring for him are realistically portrayed. Pearce depicts him as a fully developed character whose duplicity causes him anguish. He hates to disappoint his parents but he chafes at the unfairness of being made to practice the dreaded piano and to study math. He is constantly compared to his older sister who excels at both, and this impacts his relationship with her. His angst is believable and will evoke empathy from readers who also have to cope with demanding parental expectations or with sibling rivalry. But this story also deals with that moment when a child suddenly sees beyond his own needs and recognizes the adults around him as people. Children will not only learn about caring for a pet, but may also learn tolerance and acceptance of those they take for granted. Recommended.