Chester and Gus: A Heartwarming Middle Grade Novel About Friendship, Autism, and a Dog's Unwavering Love for Children (Ages 8-12)

Cammie McGovern has done it again in this latest young adult book with a very unusual narrator, namely a dog who has failed in his training program to become a companion dog because of his oversensitivity to noise. He bonds with a severely autistic boy and finally manages to establish himself as a suitable companion for him. Though McGovern's work features autistic characters prominently, the boy here is probably the lowest-functioning of them all; this makes his journey towards connection with the boy all the more dramatic and interesting. Though the dog narrates the story throughout, you get a strong sense of how the boy too is changing in words that he cannot express. Highly recommended.

I read this because my nephew was assigned it in class and I wanted to be able to discuss it with him. I couldn't believe how much I enjoyed it. Although written for children, any age person can enjoy reading it.

I identified so much with the verbal communication frustrations illustrated in this book. Because of the way I was raised and my coping mechanisms for a painful chronic illness acquired as a child, I don't communicate my symptoms like everyone else. I had a fractured leg. I told them I did but the doctor said I didn't because I crawled up on the X-ray table myself. He didn't know what it cost me to do that because I didn't even think to communicate it or say I couldn't. Because of my severe osteoporosis, my fracture didn't show - even though I told them they often don't unless it's just the right angle. The complications from that error cost me my marriage, and put my whole family through a of pain for years afterward. And that is only one instance.I'm really good with animals, and even plants. I can walk into a room filled with plants and it almost seems like the one distressed plant calls me, so I look and it needs attention -- something is wrong and I'm able to fix it.Even though I talk well and seem to have excellent verbal and social skills, I frequently say the wrong thing and offend. I have lost acquaintances from this.I wish people learned to listen with their hearts and not depend so much on words. My mom loved me very much and sacrificed so much for her chronically ill child, even as an adult, but it would have been so much better if she had HEARD me.Anyone who has children, or works with children, or even works with adults who have lost their ability to speak should read this book. I know all too well how helpless and frightening it is when people make you do things against your will because they won't or can't hear you.I would rate this book GI highly recommend it.Thank you for writing it, Cammie.

I really enjoyed this book! Super cute, easy read, unique storytelling, and lovely messages. The dog and characters were very likeable and realistic. No real drama or big villains, just some small conflicts, but realistic. I love the idea that our dogs may not talk, but we can still understand them and have a strong connection with them. I loved how Chester had such passion and desire to take care of "his person". I highlighted some good quotes and reflections! 4.5 stars, a touching story.

I got this book from my granddaughter because she wanted to share the story. It was a library book and I was so impressed with the story that I bought my own copy. I could read it again. My husband and I read a little every morning and it was hard to put down.

This is an affirming book. So glad someone wrote about it. After suspecting my own dog could hear my thoughts I decided to do an experiment. Sitting at my dresser facing away from him, helaying on the bed, I said (in my thoughts) "Gidget, want to go outside?". He jumped off of the bed and ran for the door. Then when I didn't come he stopped and looked around in confusion. As tho " did I really near her say that?

This was a wonderful story about a young boy and his relationship with his therapy dog. A rare glimpse into the life of a therapy dog, this also provided insight to the challenges faced by families with a child who is "wired differently" and the difficulties they face in connecting with their loved one.A "must read" for anyone with a love of animals and a heart for those that struggle, Chester and Gus is one that will be read over and over in our home.

It's a crazy idea, about a dog and his boy. There are several other "crazy" and "weird" people, along with the dog and his boy. The boy's mom is a little crazy, in a nice way, and there is, oddly, more than one mean teacher. A lot of scary things happen, and the dog ends up being the smartest (and bravest) one of all! Read it by yourself if you don't want anyone to see you cry. Especially your dog. (My dog is used to it.)

A great way for boys to like reading

Great book

１００冊程の子供向け英語の本と、大学受験生用の問題集は、中学生と高校生の2人の孫娘の希望で、いつも私が購入している本です。英語の本が大好きです。

Todo muy bien! Entrega en tiempo.