The novel is a masterclass in empathy. Alex is not a “good kid” in the traditional sense; he is angry and makes poor choices. However, the reader understands why . This opens classroom discussions about situational ethics and how trauma shapes behavior.
My name is Alex. I am twelve. I am not a dog, but the man who owns me calls me Dogboy. He says I am good for only two things: fetching and staying quiet.
If you are a student, your school may have a digital portal. Many middle schools use (by OverDrive) or Follett Destiny . Log in with your student ID and search for the title. Schools often have multiple digital copies for simultaneous use.