Wondrous Rex

Description

Newbery Medal-winning author Patricia MacLachlan has written a magical and funny tale about the joy found in using words, sharing stories, and loving a wondrous dog: Rex. Grace's aunt is a writer. She works with words every day and teaches Grace interesting words like "melancholy" and "delirious." But Lily is often "flummoxed" by her writing. Her stories don't go anywhere, her desk is a mess, and her writer's group can't help. So Lily posts an ad for an assistant: A writer of books needs an assistant, a coach, a helper, for inspiration and some magic! The next day, Grace opens the door, and there is Rex: a Labrador retriever who will change Grace's life, and Lily's. The word "amazing" is an everyday word for Rex, who inspires Lily, and helps Grace find the words to write her own story.

Patricia MacLachlan is the best-selling author of many beloved books for young readers, including SARAH, PLAIN AND TALL, winner of the Newbery Medal. Her novels for young readers include ARTHUR FOR THE VERY FIRST TIME, THE FACTS AND FICTIONS OF MINNA PRATT, SKYLARK, CALEB'S STORY, MORE PERFECT THAN THE MOON, and GRANDFATHER'S DANCE. She is also the author of many timeless picture books, including THREE NAMES, WHO LOVES ME?, WHAT YOU KNOW FIRST, ALL THE PLACES TO LOVE, PAINTING THE WIND, BITTLE, and ONCE I ATE A PIE, several of which she co-wrote with her daughter, Emily. She lives with her husband and two border terriers in Williamsburg, Massachusetts.

"MacLachlan spins from simple words an enigmatic, gentle . . . tale. Sweetly magical." - Kirkus Reviews "A charmed (and charming) dog, a language-loving girl, and an innate aunt-niece bond are among the alluring threads that MacLachlan (Dream Within a Dream) deftly weaves into this taut novel. MacLachlan again proves her gift for shaping endearing and credible characters-even a magical canine-in this bright yet reflective story." - Publishers Weekly "Newbery-winner MacLachlan's spare but elegant prose touches on themes of self-confidence, the writer's craft, and the sense of well-being that can come from pet ownership. This book will please younger readers and inspire would-be wordsmiths." - Booklist