Attack of the poet robots! (Po-bots?)

Kerri Miller's Must-Read

“The Underdogs” by Melissa Fay Greene Buy this book Dogs are having their day in the book world, and that just delights me, because dogs and books are two of my absolutely favorite things! The recent pack of dog books meant that when Tracy, Steph and I decided to feature three books about dogs this summer, we had a boatload of books to consider. Eventually, we narrowed it down, and here’s the first book I’ve chosen. I’ve interviewed writer Melissa Fay Greene about adopting children from Ethiopia, and what it’s like to raise nine kids in Atlanta. But she never mentioned the three dogs that live in her house, too. And the extra dog that hangs out on weekdays. As dog lovers do, she’s spent a lot of time observing canine behavior. Her new book investigates the unconditional bond between dogs and children. She watches trainers work with newbie service dogs at an acclaimed training center in Ohio. She admires the gentleness and sensitivity of Ben and Juke and Casey, dogs that love and serve and guard children with disabilities. And she ponders the compassion and intelligence dogs exhibit every day. Melissa Fay Greene will launch our Dog Days of Summer series on July 11. And don't forget our Take It to the Lake Summer Fiction list, if you're still hunting for a great summer read. -K.M.

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