Kenneth Ian Segel – författare

Jake, a smart, very responsible fifth grader, was surrounded by a houseful of adoring pets. Taking meticulous care of them was his favorite hobby. The pets included an affectionate golden retriever; an energetic hamster; a sly cat; an opinionated parakeet; three nosy goldfish; a mischievous rabbit; and two sleepy turtles. Jake was understanding, gentle, and encouraging. His special attention kept each pet healthy and strong. Each pet knew that it wouldnt be forgotten or ignored. Jake couldnt wait to become ten years old. Why? Because he passionately wanted to attend an outstanding summer camp in Arizona that required each camper to be at least ten years of age. Jake and his best friend, Drew, had long planned to attend the camp together for the month of June. The camp offered a wide variety of hands-on experiences from milking cows, helping with the birthing of baby animals, feeding animals, collecting eggs, picking fresh fruit and vegetables, as well as building a bird sanctuary and riding horses. This exciting summer camp experience would greatly enrich Jakes knowledge and skills. Because of Jakes exceptional devotion to his pets, several close friends independently approached him asking if he would take care of their pets in June while they traveled with their families. Jake was deeply committed to going to camp. Now, he had to make the big decision. Would he give up his summer plans to stay home and look after his friends pets? Would he choose to help others instead of pursuing his own pleasure? Jake makes his decision. Read how Jakes generosity and kindness were rewarded.

Do you have a dog for a pet? Do you think your dog is smart and special? Does your dog do funny or unusual things? This story is about Sparkey who is an amazing, wonder dog. Sparkey, dearly loved by his family, is truly unique. He could do arithmetic both addition and subtraction. He could sing with his ears flapping in rhythm. He could talk entering into family conversations with strange sounds and an occasional bark. He could read. He would bring the daily newspaper into the house, open the paper, place his nose on the print and move his head from line to line. At times, he would laugh out loud as he read. At other times, it sounded as if he was crying when he read something sad. Sparkey enjoyed shopping for groceries in a supermarket. He would paw at those items he wanted the family to take home. He liked sports, particularly swimming. He would jump into the familys backyard pool and speed from one end to the other. Very proud of himself, he would clap his paws in approval of his achievement. Mysterious and strange things were happening in the Kelly home. No one in the family could explain the unusual happenings. It was weird. Was it the work of ghosts? Was it leprechauns? What was really going on? Things disappeared and reappeared. There were no clues. Working together as detectives, and with Sparkeys help, the Kelly family finally solved the mystery. Sparkey proved that he really was a wonder dog.