Banjo by Graham Salisbury
Published by Wendy Lamb Books on October 8, 2019
ISBN: 0375842640
Pages: 224
Genres: Animals, Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Danny is a twelve year old rodeo star who lives with his father, older brother, and his border collie, Banjo on a ranch in Oregon. Banjo is shot and wounded by neighbor boys who accuse him of attacking their sheep. Danny knows that Banjo would never do this. The father of the boys who shot Banjo informs Danny and his father that Banjo must be put down. Danny and his father know this is what must happen when a dog attacks livestock. Danny has to make a heartbreaking decision. Another character in the book is Meg. She crosses Banjo’s path and eventually Danny’s path. The story is told by Danny and Meg. This realistic story about the bond that people develop with animals is engaging. It is heartbreaking and heartwarming. It is about trust, loyalty, and determination. The author makes the setting come alive with descriptions of rodeos and life on a ranch. The characters are well developed and grow with the story.
I highly recommend this book for ages 10-14. 5 stars Kris Zuidema, retired school librarian, Standish
Recommend for Cream of the Crop