Gladstone — J.E. Johnson

In this delightful easy-reader chapter book, children are introduced to the golden retriever, Gladstone. As a breed, goldens are know for their loving dispositions, intelligence, and loyalty. The title character, Gladstone, is no exception. He loves all the Marsh family - Mom, Dad, and eight-year old Emma - but is especially tuned to the wishes of 11-year old Oliver, an equally friendly and cheerful boy. While on a Sunday afternoon walk, the two stop at the local playground to visit with the neighborhood children, and Gladstone greets all his friends by lying down, allowing the children to pet him and some even sitting on him. But Oliver is in a hurry to get home because the Kensington Dog Show, a Marsh family favorite, is on television and he doesn't want to miss the start! However, on their way back to the family apartment, the two are seen by a harried producer of the world-famous dog show. He is desperate to find a Golden Retriever because the show's entry has suddenly become ill and is unable to compete. The show must have every breed represented in order to fulfill terms of the producer's contract. Pleading and begging for Oliver's help, Oliver agrees with one condition: he must be Gladstone's handler. The hard-pressed and distraught producer reluctantly agrees, and is not sure how to cope with young Oliver and his thoroughbred dog. Gladstone and Oliver become drawn into the world of competitive dog breeders and are soon part of the show itself! How they cope on national television will test the strong bonds of affection that the two share. The pair become the crowd favorite and their victory is greeted with overwhelming applause and cheers. Oliver and Gladstone return home with a trophy and blue ribbon, to the delight of all the residents of their apartment building, but especially for proud Mom and Dad, and sister Emma.