What do you think?
Rate this book
Project Madison #1
Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog
Life is getting way too tricky for eleven-year-old Madison Morgan. She’s not interested in boys, fashion, or the latest gossip, unlike her best friend Paige. Her stepdad, who she knows as Henry, has way too many systems around the house since her Mom died. To top it off, Madison and her new friend Cooper have become the “school project” of a bully named Donald. And all she really wants is a dog to call her own, but all she gets is the parental-brush-off. What is a straight-talking, spunky middle grader going to do?
Kids from ages nine to twelve years old are sure to get a laugh from Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog, which tells the heartwarming story of the sometimes tough, frequently funny days of the wise-cracking, dog-loving Madison. When her dad arrives home with a scrawny brown terrier named Lilly, Madison is amazed to find she has an ability to understand dogs, their emotions, and often their pasts. However, her gift also leads her to uncover some extremely harmful activities that are happening in her very own neighborhood.
Frank, funny, and full of adventure, this book is a must for any middle grader, who is certain to be enthralled by this dog blogger.
Kids from ages nine to twelve years old are sure to get a laugh from Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog, which tells the heartwarming story of the sometimes tough, frequently funny days of the wise-cracking, dog-loving Madison. When her dad arrives home with a scrawny brown terrier named Lilly, Madison is amazed to find she has an ability to understand dogs, their emotions, and often their pasts. However, her gift also leads her to uncover some extremely harmful activities that are happening in her very own neighborhood.
Frank, funny, and full of adventure, this book is a must for any middle grader, who is certain to be enthralled by this dog blogger.
- GenresMiddle Grade
156 pages, Paperback
First published July 21, 2012
1 person is currently reading
561 people want to read
About the author
Pam Torres
6 books42 followersPam Torres was born in Logan, Utah and spent most of her childhood in Prairie Village, Kansas. Besides playing Dorothy during tornado weather and digging Peter Pan-like underground forts she also played piano and ran cross-country.
She started her family early and had five energetic and creative children. She has fond memories of reading to and playing with her children in between hefty amounts of volunteering at church and school.
Now living in Washington state, Pam walks in the rain, makes messes with her grandchildren, watches birds, reads and writes all while she awaits the next big adventure.
She is an active member of The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and Pacific Northwest Writers Association (PNWA). She has raised six children and has taken care of numerous pets and other animals.
She started her family early and had five energetic and creative children. She has fond memories of reading to and playing with her children in between hefty amounts of volunteering at church and school.
Now living in Washington state, Pam walks in the rain, makes messes with her grandchildren, watches birds, reads and writes all while she awaits the next big adventure.
She is an active member of The Society of Children's Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI) and Pacific Northwest Writers Association (PNWA). She has raised six children and has taken care of numerous pets and other animals.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
July 26, 2012
As a book for middle-graders, or even for older readers (much older, in my case! : ), Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog has it all: well-developed characters, plenty of humor, a story line by turns suspenseful and touching, a timely and extremely relevant social theme, and a protagonist you can’t help but love: eleven-year-old Madison Morgan.
At the beginning of the book, Madison is a quirky tween, so well-drawn you feel you know her. She’s caught in that scary place where she realizes she’s no longer a little girl, but doesn’t feel ready to begin the journey to adulthood. Her best friend Paige has already made the transition, apparently with ease, which makes Madison feel more displaced than ever. As a result she’s grumpy at times, she’s shy, and she’s reluctant to take on the role of middle-schooler. She’s lived alone with her stepfather Henry since her mother’s death six years before, and the two have an extremely close, but by no means conflict-free, relationship. Readers will laugh at Madison’s eye-rolling descriptions of the “systems” Henry uses to maintain order in their lives (he’s an architect). Author Pam Torres does a masterful job of creating Henry’s character. He emerges as a complex and completely believable single dad, loving but firm, proud of his daughter but worried about the challenges adolescence will bring, aware of the special abilities Madison shares with her mother, but reluctant to accept and embrace them.
Torres develops her other characters—Cooper, Donald, Netta, Paige, Madison’s absent mother and even Ms. McBee, her teacher—just as skillfully, creating in the process a story that draws the reader in from the very first page. Over the course of the book, in ways that are sometimes painful and sometimes humorous, Madison grows and learns to come to terms with who she is. At the same time, she confronts the pressing issue of animal cruelty head on. Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog is a multi-layered, well-crafted and very satisfying debut novel, and I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. Kudos to author Pam Torres!
At the beginning of the book, Madison is a quirky tween, so well-drawn you feel you know her. She’s caught in that scary place where she realizes she’s no longer a little girl, but doesn’t feel ready to begin the journey to adulthood. Her best friend Paige has already made the transition, apparently with ease, which makes Madison feel more displaced than ever. As a result she’s grumpy at times, she’s shy, and she’s reluctant to take on the role of middle-schooler. She’s lived alone with her stepfather Henry since her mother’s death six years before, and the two have an extremely close, but by no means conflict-free, relationship. Readers will laugh at Madison’s eye-rolling descriptions of the “systems” Henry uses to maintain order in their lives (he’s an architect). Author Pam Torres does a masterful job of creating Henry’s character. He emerges as a complex and completely believable single dad, loving but firm, proud of his daughter but worried about the challenges adolescence will bring, aware of the special abilities Madison shares with her mother, but reluctant to accept and embrace them.
Torres develops her other characters—Cooper, Donald, Netta, Paige, Madison’s absent mother and even Ms. McBee, her teacher—just as skillfully, creating in the process a story that draws the reader in from the very first page. Over the course of the book, in ways that are sometimes painful and sometimes humorous, Madison grows and learns to come to terms with who she is. At the same time, she confronts the pressing issue of animal cruelty head on. Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog is a multi-layered, well-crafted and very satisfying debut novel, and I’m anxiously awaiting the next book in this series. Kudos to author Pam Torres!
October 30, 2012
As a mom of 3 girls 8,12, and almost 15, I decided to read this to the two youngest and see how it resonated with them as its geared to the 8-12 age group. The girls like the characters and loved how she spoke with all the hash tags and rolling of the eyes.( I get that a lot here myself) My 12 year old is at that stage as well, most of her friends are boy crazy, and she is just content to play basketball and play on the Wii so this story was easily relatable to her. My kids are huge animal lover having a 3 year old American Cocker Spaniel and a 8 month old kitten, they are big into respecting your animals, and treating them well. Our animals are definitely family here. The author did a great job making the characters relatable, and did a great job tackling some difficult subjects. They enjoyed the story a lot and said they would recommend it to all of their friends to read.
I give this book a 4out of 5 star rating.
I give this book a 4out of 5 star rating.
March 5, 2013
Utterly enchanting and containing such profound inner meaning, this delightful children’s book is a must-read!
‘The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated’ – Mahatma Ghandi
Not only is this a fun read which whisks you off on the most thrilling adventure, but it also contains such deep poignancy and clarity on the subject of animal welfare and pet ownership. Since owning dogs from a young age I have learnt how animals are a great responsibility, both financially and time (as much as any child), for they truly are a member of the family. This delightful story highlights the importance of this targeted at children, as well as tackling other significant issues such as bullying, bereavement and taking the right course of action in any situation. An enjoyable, highly readable book which is thoroughly comprehensive and ideal for Middle-grade students (regardless of country) and children who love Dogs.
Madison Morgan is a likable character whom many readers will be able to connect with and relate to, as at the tender age of eleven encounters tough challenges within her life. Coping with the loss of her mother alongside trying to settle into her first year at middle school, is certainly not easy and yet this spunky, straight-talking and gutsy girl is determined. Hermione Granger from JK Rowling’s Harry Potter was brought to mind as I observed the main protagonist from new dog owner to school girl savior, for she has all the qualities of a true heroine and role model for kids everywhere…she is not flawless but human. Her ability to understand Dogs emotions by observing Lilly is a gift that we all can learn from, for if we apply the same thought to our own animals and even humans, we not only become more perceptive to others feelings but hopefully in doing so will bring out the compassionate, caring and understanding side in us all – whether you are stroking your dog or wondering why a bully picks on others.
This absolutely fantastic book is one that not only champions good animal welfare, but which also delves into school bullying (which is sadly a big issue for many children). Thought-provoking and refreshingly original, I was blown away by this story that I would highly recommend to children and schools. Childhood to adulthood can be the hardest transition within life that we all experience, with common trials and tribulations occurring to hinder our path and so it is books like this one that aid us along the way…A thrilling adventure complete with exquisite illustrations that is sure to dazzle and delight!
*Author Pam Torres is donating 10 percent of the proceeds from this book to the ASPCA animal shelters and other programmes to benefit homeless or abused animals.
- I won a paperback copy of “Madison Morgan: when Dogs blog” by Pam Torres, from a book blog giveaway. I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the author for this. -
‘The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated’ – Mahatma Ghandi
Not only is this a fun read which whisks you off on the most thrilling adventure, but it also contains such deep poignancy and clarity on the subject of animal welfare and pet ownership. Since owning dogs from a young age I have learnt how animals are a great responsibility, both financially and time (as much as any child), for they truly are a member of the family. This delightful story highlights the importance of this targeted at children, as well as tackling other significant issues such as bullying, bereavement and taking the right course of action in any situation. An enjoyable, highly readable book which is thoroughly comprehensive and ideal for Middle-grade students (regardless of country) and children who love Dogs.
Madison Morgan is a likable character whom many readers will be able to connect with and relate to, as at the tender age of eleven encounters tough challenges within her life. Coping with the loss of her mother alongside trying to settle into her first year at middle school, is certainly not easy and yet this spunky, straight-talking and gutsy girl is determined. Hermione Granger from JK Rowling’s Harry Potter was brought to mind as I observed the main protagonist from new dog owner to school girl savior, for she has all the qualities of a true heroine and role model for kids everywhere…she is not flawless but human. Her ability to understand Dogs emotions by observing Lilly is a gift that we all can learn from, for if we apply the same thought to our own animals and even humans, we not only become more perceptive to others feelings but hopefully in doing so will bring out the compassionate, caring and understanding side in us all – whether you are stroking your dog or wondering why a bully picks on others.
This absolutely fantastic book is one that not only champions good animal welfare, but which also delves into school bullying (which is sadly a big issue for many children). Thought-provoking and refreshingly original, I was blown away by this story that I would highly recommend to children and schools. Childhood to adulthood can be the hardest transition within life that we all experience, with common trials and tribulations occurring to hinder our path and so it is books like this one that aid us along the way…A thrilling adventure complete with exquisite illustrations that is sure to dazzle and delight!
*Author Pam Torres is donating 10 percent of the proceeds from this book to the ASPCA animal shelters and other programmes to benefit homeless or abused animals.
- I won a paperback copy of “Madison Morgan: when Dogs blog” by Pam Torres, from a book blog giveaway. I would like to take this opportunity of thanking the author for this. -
January 22, 2014
I received this book as Goodreads First Reads giveaway. Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog is geared towards nine to twelve year old's but I must admit that as an almost 34 year old I found it quite interesting and informative. It was a quick read, which I was glad for, since I was not able to put it down! I would even venture to say that it was a bit of a page turner!
Madison Morgan, the protagonist, is not your typical female heroine – she isn't into boys or fashion or makeup and she most certainly isn't looking for someone to rescue her or solve her problems for her. She’s a great role model for young girls who, like Madison, feel a little out of place amongst their peers, who are a little bit different but who don't see that as a reason to change who they are.
This book touches on a number of topics related to its target audience such as bullying, fighting with friends, making new friends and dealing with the challenges of growing up but it also touches on several other more sophisticated issues such as child abandonment/neglect, death of a parent and the harsh reality of puppy mills. I feel like those topics were dealt with in a very child friendly manner using easy to understand language. They were not glossed over in any way or simplified which I appreciated quite a bit – life isn't always rainbows and butterflies and I was happy to see a pre-teen novel where these sorts of topics were brought to light, and handled so well.
This book is a little bit beyond my three year old daughter but I will keep it for her to read eventually. I would also highly recommend it to anyone with a child around 9-12 years of age. It’s a very enjoyable read!
Madison Morgan, the protagonist, is not your typical female heroine – she isn't into boys or fashion or makeup and she most certainly isn't looking for someone to rescue her or solve her problems for her. She’s a great role model for young girls who, like Madison, feel a little out of place amongst their peers, who are a little bit different but who don't see that as a reason to change who they are.
This book touches on a number of topics related to its target audience such as bullying, fighting with friends, making new friends and dealing with the challenges of growing up but it also touches on several other more sophisticated issues such as child abandonment/neglect, death of a parent and the harsh reality of puppy mills. I feel like those topics were dealt with in a very child friendly manner using easy to understand language. They were not glossed over in any way or simplified which I appreciated quite a bit – life isn't always rainbows and butterflies and I was happy to see a pre-teen novel where these sorts of topics were brought to light, and handled so well.
This book is a little bit beyond my three year old daughter but I will keep it for her to read eventually. I would also highly recommend it to anyone with a child around 9-12 years of age. It’s a very enjoyable read!
August 14, 2014
This is a wonderful book for all animal lovers.
It starts out that Madison wants a dog but her step dad was hesitant. So when she started middle school, the class got computers and started a blog. The same time, her step dad brought home a dog, Lilly, for Madison to take care of (to foster). At first she rejects the dog but then falls in love with Lilly.
At school, Madison decides to do fostering dogs for her blog. The teacher pairs her up with Cooper, a shy boy. Between the two of them, they go out to the Second Chance Shelter, that is rum by Nettie and was also the place Madison's mom spent time at (she died when Madison was 5). The second trip out, another boy, Donald, who has caused problems for Connor, comes along. He tells Madison Connor has a secret.
Madison's curiosity leads her to Cooper's uncle's house, where Cooper has been living. She finds out that the uncle is running a puppy mill and several of the dogs are sick. With the help of Madison's step dad, Nettie and Madison, Cooper gives the authorities the information (and a very ill dog for evidence) and they arrest the uncle. Cooper is also "saved" and lives out at the shelter with Nettie, after rescuing over 100 puppies from the puppy mill.
This book is great in letting people know that there are organizations such as the ASPCA (of which I am a guardian member) and the Humane Society. To protect animals from the cruelty and abuse is something we all need to do something about. After all We are "their voice." (the ASPCA motto).
I didn't win this book (I won the second in the series) and I'm glad that I read this one.
It starts out that Madison wants a dog but her step dad was hesitant. So when she started middle school, the class got computers and started a blog. The same time, her step dad brought home a dog, Lilly, for Madison to take care of (to foster). At first she rejects the dog but then falls in love with Lilly.
At school, Madison decides to do fostering dogs for her blog. The teacher pairs her up with Cooper, a shy boy. Between the two of them, they go out to the Second Chance Shelter, that is rum by Nettie and was also the place Madison's mom spent time at (she died when Madison was 5). The second trip out, another boy, Donald, who has caused problems for Connor, comes along. He tells Madison Connor has a secret.
Madison's curiosity leads her to Cooper's uncle's house, where Cooper has been living. She finds out that the uncle is running a puppy mill and several of the dogs are sick. With the help of Madison's step dad, Nettie and Madison, Cooper gives the authorities the information (and a very ill dog for evidence) and they arrest the uncle. Cooper is also "saved" and lives out at the shelter with Nettie, after rescuing over 100 puppies from the puppy mill.
This book is great in letting people know that there are organizations such as the ASPCA (of which I am a guardian member) and the Humane Society. To protect animals from the cruelty and abuse is something we all need to do something about. After all We are "their voice." (the ASPCA motto).
I didn't win this book (I won the second in the series) and I'm glad that I read this one.
July 26, 2012
My Rating: 4 out of 5 stars.
Disclaimers: I received an electronic copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I went into this book expecting to like the book, but not to be blown away. Boy was I wrong.
From the very first few pages I fell in love with Torres' writing style. She wrote in a way that made me genuinely feel like I was in an eleven-year-old girl's head. Her writing flowed seamlessly and sucked me into the story from the very first page until the very last page. All in all Pam Torres' writing style was compelling, intriguing, and genuine.
Then there were her characters; I absolutely adored Madison. I felt really connected to her and found myself rooting for her as she went about her daily life. She's going through an awkward phase. Her friend Paige is becoming more and more distanced and Madison doesn't know what to do.
She knows she wants a dog. When her dad finally caves and gets her a foster dog named Lilly, it marks the start of new friendships and adventures that will hit home with readers.
I also really liked Cooper. He was quiet and shy, but I really loved reading about him and watching him progress in this novel. I even liked the way Pam portrayed her bully Donald. He wasn't a character who you outright hated but you didn't like him either. Each character was brilliantly developed and left me thoroughly enraptured with their tales.
In Summary: A beautifully written and compelling story that readers of all fans will adore. A book with an all-star cast and masterful writing that left me thoroughly entertained. Definitely recommended.
The Wrap-Up: This book is geared for younger (mg) readers; however, I still really loved this book. Torres brilliantly depicted the voice of an eleven year old girl and chose an intriguing topic that manged to inform, entertain, and amuse me all at once. A great read worth reading.
Love,
Danica Page
Disclaimers: I received an electronic copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
My Overall Thoughts/Impressions: I went into this book expecting to like the book, but not to be blown away. Boy was I wrong.
From the very first few pages I fell in love with Torres' writing style. She wrote in a way that made me genuinely feel like I was in an eleven-year-old girl's head. Her writing flowed seamlessly and sucked me into the story from the very first page until the very last page. All in all Pam Torres' writing style was compelling, intriguing, and genuine.
Then there were her characters; I absolutely adored Madison. I felt really connected to her and found myself rooting for her as she went about her daily life. She's going through an awkward phase. Her friend Paige is becoming more and more distanced and Madison doesn't know what to do.
She knows she wants a dog. When her dad finally caves and gets her a foster dog named Lilly, it marks the start of new friendships and adventures that will hit home with readers.
I also really liked Cooper. He was quiet and shy, but I really loved reading about him and watching him progress in this novel. I even liked the way Pam portrayed her bully Donald. He wasn't a character who you outright hated but you didn't like him either. Each character was brilliantly developed and left me thoroughly enraptured with their tales.
In Summary: A beautifully written and compelling story that readers of all fans will adore. A book with an all-star cast and masterful writing that left me thoroughly entertained. Definitely recommended.
The Wrap-Up: This book is geared for younger (mg) readers; however, I still really loved this book. Torres brilliantly depicted the voice of an eleven year old girl and chose an intriguing topic that manged to inform, entertain, and amuse me all at once. A great read worth reading.
Love,
Danica Page
June 10, 2013
This is a fun Chapter Book for older elementary age children.
Madison is beginning sixth grade in Middle School. She is not
very excited about it and decides she just wants to appear
invisible. Her best friend, Paige, is excited to start Middle
School. She has gotten interested in fashion and boys...boring.
They have been friends since first grade. Now Madison hardly
recognizes Paige with this new attitude and interests.
Then there is Henry, her step-dad. He also feels she should be
excited to be"growing up". If she is growing up then why can't
she have a dog? He tells her this is too big of a responsibility
for her. He is OK for a Dad. Her mother died when Morgan was five.
Henry came into her life when she was three. He said it was just a name
so never objected to her calling him Henry. She only called him "Dad"
when she addressed him about something important.
Morgan starts school as part of a special group to work with computers
and is informed they will be creating a school blog. She is assigned
to come up with an idea for a special post.
That week when she spends her scheduled evening TV activity with Henry,
a show about a dog mill was on Animal Planet (one of the few shows she is
allowed to watch - Henry has a very scheduled "System" with strict rules).
There is a "bully", a boy "bullied" and the "cool" group involved in this
story.
[Spoiler] Madison becomes friends with the "bullied" boy when she is assigned
by the teacher to partner with him on her project. This opens up a chain of
events that is sure to keep the reader's interest.
Madison has a quick wit and a dry humor. It will keep a YA entertained.
This is quite well-written and is, hopefully, the beginning of a new series.
I give this a solid Five Stars rating.
Madison is beginning sixth grade in Middle School. She is not
very excited about it and decides she just wants to appear
invisible. Her best friend, Paige, is excited to start Middle
School. She has gotten interested in fashion and boys...boring.
They have been friends since first grade. Now Madison hardly
recognizes Paige with this new attitude and interests.
Then there is Henry, her step-dad. He also feels she should be
excited to be"growing up". If she is growing up then why can't
she have a dog? He tells her this is too big of a responsibility
for her. He is OK for a Dad. Her mother died when Morgan was five.
Henry came into her life when she was three. He said it was just a name
so never objected to her calling him Henry. She only called him "Dad"
when she addressed him about something important.
Morgan starts school as part of a special group to work with computers
and is informed they will be creating a school blog. She is assigned
to come up with an idea for a special post.
That week when she spends her scheduled evening TV activity with Henry,
a show about a dog mill was on Animal Planet (one of the few shows she is
allowed to watch - Henry has a very scheduled "System" with strict rules).
There is a "bully", a boy "bullied" and the "cool" group involved in this
story.
[Spoiler] Madison becomes friends with the "bullied" boy when she is assigned
by the teacher to partner with him on her project. This opens up a chain of
events that is sure to keep the reader's interest.
Madison has a quick wit and a dry humor. It will keep a YA entertained.
This is quite well-written and is, hopefully, the beginning of a new series.
I give this a solid Five Stars rating.
July 31, 2012
When eleven-year-old Madison Morgan’s sixth-grade teacher told her class they were all to start their own blogs for a class project, Madison knew exactly what she wanted to write about – dogs! Madison had always loved dogs, a trait she inherited from her Mom who passed away a few years earlier.
More than anything else, Madison wanted a dog of her own. Her Dad, Henry, still needed some convincing, but eventually he gave in, and brought home a dog for Madison to foster, named Lily. Tiny and shy, Lily was not exactly Madison’s dream dog, However, Madison learned to appreciate why it was that Lily needed extra special tlc, after teaming up with her classmate Cooper for her blog project. As part of their assignment, Madison and Cooper make several trips to the local dog shelter, run by Netta, a friend of Madison’s mom, to learn more about shelters and fostering.
As the story develops, we learn, that Cooper has a secret - one he is not proud off - about his family and Lily’s background. Eventually the secret comes out and there is only one thing Madison can do. Through trust, friendship, and a common love for dogs, Madison, Cooper, Henry, and Netta, help some very special dogs in need.
Madison Morgan is a sweet book that every young dog lover will enjoy. Pam Torres creates enjoyable characters that middle grade readers will easily be able to relate to and appreciate. The subject matter, while serious, is presented perfectly for the intended age group.
*A copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review
More than anything else, Madison wanted a dog of her own. Her Dad, Henry, still needed some convincing, but eventually he gave in, and brought home a dog for Madison to foster, named Lily. Tiny and shy, Lily was not exactly Madison’s dream dog, However, Madison learned to appreciate why it was that Lily needed extra special tlc, after teaming up with her classmate Cooper for her blog project. As part of their assignment, Madison and Cooper make several trips to the local dog shelter, run by Netta, a friend of Madison’s mom, to learn more about shelters and fostering.
As the story develops, we learn, that Cooper has a secret - one he is not proud off - about his family and Lily’s background. Eventually the secret comes out and there is only one thing Madison can do. Through trust, friendship, and a common love for dogs, Madison, Cooper, Henry, and Netta, help some very special dogs in need.
Madison Morgan is a sweet book that every young dog lover will enjoy. Pam Torres creates enjoyable characters that middle grade readers will easily be able to relate to and appreciate. The subject matter, while serious, is presented perfectly for the intended age group.
*A copy of this book was provided to me in exchange for an honest review
September 22, 2012
Madison Morgan wants a dog. When her step-dad, Henry, brought home a little dog named Lilly for them to foster, Madison wasn't exactly happy. Lilly wasn't the kind of dog she would have picked and Madison is angry with her step-dad for not talking to her about it. Madison soon starts to like their little foster dog. One of Madison's middle-school projects is to make a blog and, she and her partner, Cooper (Madison's friend), decide to do it on dogs. Madison learns a lot about dogs and fostering, and soon she and Cooper discover a puppy mill (a horrible place for puppies that is illegal) in their neighborhood!
This book has a strong message about abusing dogs. It also has a good story about a middle-school kid. Madison was one of those characters who I'd like as a friend. She wasn't set on how she looked, but was just a nice person. She had to deal with just starting middle school in the book. She gets bullied a bit and feels kind of awkward. Cooper also has a secret he is hiding and Madison is a good friend to him and helps him deal with it. I like the major plot of the book, about Lily and Madison growing to love each other. The story really kept me reading and interested. I liked Henry, Madison's step-dad. The book said he came into her life when she was three and had become her guardian when her mom died. I wasn't sure if her mom was a single mom or did she get a divorce or her husband died. The cover is kind of creepy-cool. I like the colors. I recommend it to kids 9+.
- NOTE I got a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review
This book has a strong message about abusing dogs. It also has a good story about a middle-school kid. Madison was one of those characters who I'd like as a friend. She wasn't set on how she looked, but was just a nice person. She had to deal with just starting middle school in the book. She gets bullied a bit and feels kind of awkward. Cooper also has a secret he is hiding and Madison is a good friend to him and helps him deal with it. I like the major plot of the book, about Lily and Madison growing to love each other. The story really kept me reading and interested. I liked Henry, Madison's step-dad. The book said he came into her life when she was three and had become her guardian when her mom died. I wasn't sure if her mom was a single mom or did she get a divorce or her husband died. The cover is kind of creepy-cool. I like the colors. I recommend it to kids 9+.
- NOTE I got a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair review
April 17, 2013
Madison Morgan: When Dogs Blog by Pam Torres
4.5 Stars
When eleven-year-old Madison Morgan’s class have to create a blog for a school project, Madison’s love of dogs and a TV programme give her the perfect idea for its content. Deciding to talk about puppy farms, where dogs kept in horrendous conditions are forced to breed for money, little did she know that there was one such place very close to home.
This is a lovely story where Madison becomes friends with a less fortunate boy named Cooper, and together they become the hero’s of the book. Pam Torres has managed to build believable characters and situations in this well written tale that the target audience, and older, will be able to relate to and enjoy.
Madison Morgan is filled with situations where choices have to be made, from bullying to lying, and ultimately when to tell the grown-ups. By writing in this eleven year olds voice, and presenting the characters with dilemmas, allowing the reader to watch as they work through their options to gain favourable conclusions, Pam instantly grabbed her audience and kept them engaged to the very end.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone aged 8 years and over, it was an enjoyable read.
Copy supplied for review
4.5 Stars
When eleven-year-old Madison Morgan’s class have to create a blog for a school project, Madison’s love of dogs and a TV programme give her the perfect idea for its content. Deciding to talk about puppy farms, where dogs kept in horrendous conditions are forced to breed for money, little did she know that there was one such place very close to home.
This is a lovely story where Madison becomes friends with a less fortunate boy named Cooper, and together they become the hero’s of the book. Pam Torres has managed to build believable characters and situations in this well written tale that the target audience, and older, will be able to relate to and enjoy.
Madison Morgan is filled with situations where choices have to be made, from bullying to lying, and ultimately when to tell the grown-ups. By writing in this eleven year olds voice, and presenting the characters with dilemmas, allowing the reader to watch as they work through their options to gain favourable conclusions, Pam instantly grabbed her audience and kept them engaged to the very end.
I would highly recommend this book to anyone aged 8 years and over, it was an enjoyable read.
Copy supplied for review
January 15, 2014
I received this book as a Goodreads First Reads giveaway directly from the author. This was a fun read. I was interested to see the format and subject discussion for middle school age children (I have grandchildren in this age group).
Comments on book: ie: advise to middle school readers....
1. NEVER lie to your parents!
2. Do NOT skip school without parental permission!
3. DO find a worthy cause to be passionate about!
Middle school aged children are an excellent age to educate and help to explore the importance of taking care of our fragile earth and the living things upon it. I would challenge the young people to take advantage of school and community projects that raise awareness for ecology, animal care, waste management, world peace, etc.
Many thanks to Pam Torres for this creative story and the information on agencies that specialize in animal rescue and protection.
Comments on book: ie: advise to middle school readers....
1. NEVER lie to your parents!
2. Do NOT skip school without parental permission!
3. DO find a worthy cause to be passionate about!
Middle school aged children are an excellent age to educate and help to explore the importance of taking care of our fragile earth and the living things upon it. I would challenge the young people to take advantage of school and community projects that raise awareness for ecology, animal care, waste management, world peace, etc.
Many thanks to Pam Torres for this creative story and the information on agencies that specialize in animal rescue and protection.
February 9, 2013
Madison Morgan is a cute, likeable heroine who wants a dog more than anything, so she sets out to convince her dad that she is responsible enough for one. Though, along the way she does do some irresponsible things. When her blog about dogs leads to a stunning revelation that could destroy a friendship, she knows she still needs to step up and do the right thing.
Although it tackles a tough, heartbreaking subject, I would say this is a fun, interesting, sometimes sad, MG book for all the dog lovers out there.
Disclaimers: I received an electronic copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
Although it tackles a tough, heartbreaking subject, I would say this is a fun, interesting, sometimes sad, MG book for all the dog lovers out there.
Disclaimers: I received an electronic copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 23, 2014
A 4.5 for sure. This is an amazing book that turned me from someone who is scared of dogs into someone who feels more confident around these animals I now find amazing.
I have a full review on my blog:
http://thereadersperch.blogspot.com/2...
I have a full review on my blog:
http://thereadersperch.blogspot.com/2...
June 28, 2012
Madison is a character that you'll love. I loved writing her story and learned so much about dogs and what they need. She has a great sense of humor and learns that "staying invisible" isn't an option when you're standing up for something.
February 3, 2014
I absolutely loved this book. It was an easy read and very heart-warming. You will fall in love with the 11 year old that is Madison Morgan. This would be a great read for a child who just moved to a new school or any child who is interested in saving animals!
November 15, 2014
very cute story
July 16, 2014
2.5 stars. Review to come.
October 5, 2016
I am so pleased to see that there are other adults who enjoy this book. Everyone needs a lighthearted, good-for-the-soul book once in a while. This feels that niche. I am also going to pass it on to my niece in California. She will be 2 years old the next time I get there but her parents want to keep her interested in books as well as blogs etc. They began collecting books from before she was born for the years when she can read. Wonderful idea. How smart are they!
I am giving it four stars considering the age group it was written for.
I am giving it four stars considering the age group it was written for.
September 3, 2014
This is the second edition. New cover, new title...same great story. Here is what others have said about it:
"The characters were well-rounded with interesting quirks and personalities that brighten the whole story. I would recommend this book to others from ages twelve plus for its winding plot." —Sacramento Book Review
"Madison is a great character: She's likable and realistic, and readers are likely to relate to her difficulties finding her place in a new world. It's clear that Madison has always been interested in helping animals, and her dual roles as a foster dog owner and class blogger are more than enough to spark action." —Kirkus Book Review
"The characters were well-rounded with interesting quirks and personalities that brighten the whole story. I would recommend this book to others from ages twelve plus for its winding plot." —Sacramento Book Review
"Madison is a great character: She's likable and realistic, and readers are likely to relate to her difficulties finding her place in a new world. It's clear that Madison has always been interested in helping animals, and her dual roles as a foster dog owner and class blogger are more than enough to spark action." —Kirkus Book Review
January 29, 2015
I won this book in a Goodreads contest. I entered the contest because the book had to do with dogs and I love dogs. I also was interested to read this book because I hope one day to be able to write books for the same audience.
I loved this book. The story was well planned and executed. The characters were well defined and interesting. Each chapter opened the curtain wider to reveal the story. I also loved the illustrations. This book dealt with difficult subjects and did it well. The young readers will enjoy this great story and learn a few thngs at the same time.
I loved this book. The story was well planned and executed. The characters were well defined and interesting. Each chapter opened the curtain wider to reveal the story. I also loved the illustrations. This book dealt with difficult subjects and did it well. The young readers will enjoy this great story and learn a few thngs at the same time.
October 23, 2014
This was an amazing story of an 11 year old girl and her passion for dogs. I love that this book, written for middle grade children, addresses the important topic of animal rescue and foster care for dogs. The story was heart warming and entertaining while also educating on a relevant issue. Highly recommended for all dog lovers!
June 26, 2015
What a cute little book! Dog lovers, bully's and those being bullied, and even kids who have lost a parent will feel connected to it. A lesson in a very enjoyable little read. I read Pam's second book through Netgalley and had to go find this one too. Thanks Pam!
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews