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Elvis and the Underdogs
Common Sense says
- Jenny Lee
- Friendship
- 2013
Parents say
Kids say
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A lot or a little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What parents need to know
Parents need to know that Elvis and the Underdogs is a great story about Benji, a sickly, friendless 10-year-old, acquiring both friends and adventures thanks to a 200-pound Newfoundland named Elvis, who's supposed to be the presidential dog but mistakenly ends up as Benji's service dog. It includes scary moments, from run-ins with school bullies to near-death due to a severe allergic reaction, and features occasional references to butts, farts, and dog pee and poop. Kids -- especially those with handicaps or chronic health issues -- will appreciate Benji's tribulations and triumphs.
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What's the story?
Born premature, 10-year-old Benji is sickly and friendless, with chronic health issues that land him in the hospital so often he's pals with Dino the nurse. After a seizure at school causes a head injury, his doctors suggest a service dog -- but no one expects the 200-pound Newfoundland who arrives. Parker Elvis Pembroke IV is full of surprises, from his bossy nature to the fact that he talks, at least to Benji, who soon learns that Elvis was supposed to go the White House as the presidential dog, not be the service dog to a 10-year-old. But Elvis takes his job seriously, and before long he manages to not only save Benji's life but help him find his own pack.
Is it any good?
Warm and lighthearted, this tale is insightful in its portrayal of tween kids coping with real-life challenges, from parental pressure to dodging the school bully (who has a surprise or two himself). There are lots of appealing characters, from Benji's new friends Taisy and Alexander to the various adults in their lives, and they all learn a few things thanks to the influence of Elvis.
Talk to your kids about ...
Families can talk about why stories about friendship between kids and dogs are so popular. How does Elvis compare with other dogs you've read about, or met in real life?
Do you agree with Elvis's advice that Benji should not trust Billy, even though the bully seems to have turned over a new leaf? Why or why not?
Do you know kids who have health or other issues and get picked on in school? Does reading this story give you more empathy for them?
Book details
- Author: Jenny Lee
- Illustrator: Kelly Light
- Genre: Friendship
- Topics: Brothers and Sisters, Cats, Dogs, and Mice, Friendship, Misfits and Underdogs
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Balzer + Bray
- Publication date: May 14, 2013
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 8 - 12
- Number of pages: 304
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
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Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.