Jenna Finds a Dog (Paperback)

A girl with a big temper. A lost dog with no one to trust. One unexpected friendship that could change everything.

Jenna Connor is always in trouble.

Adults call her a “problem kid.” Jenna just feels like her anger is too big to stop—like a storm that takes over before she can think. After a fight at school goes too far, she gets expelled and sent to therapy.

Then one day, Jenna finds a skinny, scared Border Collie hiding in the grass. She names him Lucky.

Lucky doesn’t trust anyone… except Jenna.

For the first time, Jenna feels like she understands someone—and that someone understands her back. Taking care of Lucky gives her something she’s never had before: a purpose.

With the help of her older sister and a few new friends, Jenna starts training Lucky to run agility courses—jumping, racing, and working as a team. And they’re not just good… they’re amazing.

But life doesn’t suddenly become easy.

Jenna still struggles with her temper. A bully won’t leave her alone. And one wrong choice could cost her everything—including Lucky.

Now Jenna has to decide:

Will she let her anger control her… or will she fight for the life—and the friendship—she’s finally found?

Perfect for fans of heartfelt animal stories, this is a powerful and uplifting story about friendship, second chances, and learning how to believe in yourself.

EDITORIAL REVIEWS

“As a mom, I really appreciated the message behind this book. It shows how kids who act out are often hurting more than people realize. The story between Jenna and the dog was sweet, emotional, and easy to connect to. I think a lot of tweens (and parents!) would really relate to this one.”

--Amanda Arrows

“As a psychiatrist and a border collie pet parent, I enjoyed reading this book and think it would be very helpful for all tweens to read but also everyone in general. Thank you for writing this book!”

--MCS

“You'll fall in love with Jenna. I see myself in her. She wants to do good but just has an anger in her that she can't control. 100% recommend this book...and read it WITH your kiddo. Ask them questions and be ready to discuss the hard stuff. This is a book that all ages can relate to in some way. Very enjoyable read.”

--KC

“I'm a teacher, and I'm going to share my copy with other teachers. I think this needs to be accessible in so many classrooms.”

--Diana Sponagel Hammond

“Jenna Finds a Dog beautifully captures the magic of second chances—both for a determined young girl and the dog who needs her just as much. This book is a delightful and inspiring read—It’s perfect for young readers, but adults will find just as much to appreciate in its sincerity and uplifting spirit. It gently teaches responsibility, empathy, and the idea that everyone deserves a chance to be loved and to succeed. My 9-year-old daughter and I both loved it!”

--Randall

“Thoroughly enjoyed this book: concise delivery, covering many facets of tween years: bullying, controlling feelings, solving problems. It illustrates how important it is to feel accepted, by peers as well as by learning how huge a change a pet can bring. Being needed by Lucky gives Jenna a purpose to her life, a way to become grounded when before she was not in control. I recommend this book for any child who feels different and needs encouragement.”

--Charlotte Brown

“Absolutely love this book! My son and I have read it, and I love how it opens up real-life conversations. Would definitely recommend for your older kids/tweens!”

--Kristen C.

“Buy this book for your children's classrooms- they need it and will love it!”

--Jodie