Gooseberry by Robin Gow

Gooseberry by Robin Gow.  Amulet Books, 2024. 9781419764424
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 4
Format: Hardcover
Genre: Realistic fiction
What did you like about the book? B has not had an easy time of it.  Their parents died when they were five and ever since they have lived in and out of foster or group homes. Being non-binary and trans has certainly not helped in finding a permanent home which B desperately craves.  The other thing twelve-year-old B desperately wants is a dog.  They want to be a dog trainer, especially training one to be a therapy dog.  After being rejected once again from a foster home, B seems to hit the jackpot: not only are the new foster parents two Moms but they also allow B to adopt a dog, Gooseberry.  Gooseberry had been mistreated in his former home so he is leery of strangers – though B has very unrealistic expectations in training him in a very short period of time.  B is also bullied at school though they have three very good friends.  They cry at the drop of a hat, cannot concentrate on school work.  The constant upheaval of their living situation has caused a lot of insecurity.  But things are decidedly looking up and B might actually be ready to choose a personal name instead of just going by B.
This is a decidedly unusual story, heartfelt and eye-opening.  Being allowed into the head and heart of this troubled person is a privilege.
Anything you did not like about the book? There is not a good description of Gooseberry.  The dog on the cover does not match any information given.
To whom would you recommend this book? Anyone who wants to take a look at someone who is trying to overcome a great many obstacles in their lives, will empathize with this story.
Who should buy this book? Public and elementary school libraries
Where would you shelve it? J Fiction
Should we (librarians) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? No.
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City: Katrina Yurenka, Retired Librarian, Contributor, Youth Services Book Review
Date of Review:  May 29, 2024