Review by Pam Marr Rybinski
Curious about an apparent manual on the techniques of stealing a dog, I was drawn to check out this engaging book for young readers. Instead of finding just a how-to-steal-a-dog manual, I found immersion in the miserable and desperate life of one Georgina Hayes, a formerly good young student, who lost her home, self-respect, and morals abruptly. Easy to imagine in this economy as her father lost his job, and fled the area, leaving his wife and two children destitute, Georgina’s mother works two exhausting jobs after eviction from their apartment. Daily she saves a little money to obtain housing. Meanwhile Georgina and her brother continue to go to school, washing up as best they can in public bathrooms, having to live and sleep in their old car. Motivated by desperation, Georgina struggles to contribute financially to the housing jar, even if it means stealing. In O’Connor’s words, “Georgina Hayes may be homeless, but she’s not hopeless.” O’Connor’s book is an eye-opener for readers of all ages, and accurately strikes the hearts of kids, dog owners, and parents.
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