The Boy and the Dog Tree

‘So, are you my dog?’ Mitch whispered, hardly daring to ask.

‘No,’ said Argos. ‘But you are my boy. For a time.’

Mitch’s life had been uprooted. Instead of the whole family moving to a new city, Mitch and his sister are staying with their gran while their parents are stuck on the other side of the world.

As he struggles to fit in at school, with the Grade Five bully picking on him, Mitch knows the one thing that would make his life better is a dog. If only he could persuade his parents.

Then Mitch discovers an old oak tree that seems to … growl. And one night, a strange, majestic dog-like creature emerges from the trunk. His name is Argos. He has been bound in the tree by ‘history, mystery, magic and chance’ and he is here to help Mitch find his way.

While at first Mitch looks to Argos for friendship and protection, there comes a time he must stand up for this wild and magical beast.

A beautiful book, filled with courage, magic and a huge ancient dog to wrap your arms – and your heart – around. Peter Carnavas

I thought I knew dogs but then I met the brilliant Argos. A fantastic story: eye-opening, uplifting, wise and funny. Emily Gale

Cover illustration by Judy Watson