On the first day of third grade, Gus worries that his teacher will be a monster, his classmates will call him names, and it will be the worst day of his life, but when it is over he discovers that most of his fears were unfounded.
Critically acclaimed author Cammie McGovern presents a heartwarming and humorous middle grade novel about the remarkable bond that forms between an aspiring service dog and an autistic boy in need of a friend. “Joyful, inspiring, and completely winning, Chester and Gus is unforgettable,” proclaimed Katherine Applegate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Newbery Medal winner The One and Only Ivan. Chester has always wanted to become a service dog. When he fails his certification test, though, it seems like that dream will never come true—until a family adopts him. They want him to be a companion for their ten-year-old son, Gus, who has autism. But Gus acts so differently than anyone Chester has ever met. He never wants to pet Chester, and sometimes he doesn’t even want Chester in the room. Chester’s not sure how to help Gus since this isn’t exactly the job he trained for—but he’s determined to figure it out. Because after all, Gus is now his person. In the spirit of beloved classics like Because of Winn-Dixie, Shiloh, and Old Yeller, Cammie McGovern’s heartfelt novel—told from Chester’s point of view—explores the extraordinary friendship between a child and a dog with a poignant and modern twist.
Gus was once a much-loved dog who lived a happy life. Then things began to change. His owner neglected and eventually abandoned him. He suffered abuse and cruelty from passing humans, deteriorating physically and emotionally. Over time, things out of his control began to shape Gus, his life, and his future. Gus was found by local rescuers in September 2018. He was in horrific condition, so he was immediately taken for medical treatment sponsored by the Houston K-911 Rescue group. Gus had many medical issues to overcome, he had a long recovery with lots of support from people all over the world, but now he is happy and healthy. Gus has a forever family now and he is loved, pampered and cherished, as every dog should be. Author Sandee Roquemore-Maxwell has worked with rescue dogs in the Houston area for many years. She understands that the key to a better future for animals is to teach the next generation to have compassion for those left in their care. The story of Gus reminds kids how to love their pets, and what to do if they see one abandoned, while instilling respect for animals everywhere.
It's Mother's Day, and Gus has a great idea. During art time at school, he'll make Mom a special present. But things don't go exactly as he plans. Will Mom like Gus's gift?
Find out what all the fuss is about in this funny picture book about a feisty zebra named Gus. Gus does NOT want to go on a long journey with his family. He just wants to stay home in the African savannah and play. So along the way he kicks up a BIG fuss, which doesn't make the trip any better. But with a little patience, Gus soon finds that sometimes you have the most fun when you least expect it.
The true story of a successful journalist, diagnosed with late-stage breast cancer at age thirty, who rescued Gus, an injured and abandoned dog that was about to become one of the seven million animals euthanized each year, explores the relationship they shared that brought joy, comfort, and love to the dying woman's last days.