“Barkus” by Patricia MacLachlan, illustrated by Marc Boutavant c.2017, Chronicle Kids, $14.99 / $20.99 Canada, 56 pages

Remember when your best friend stepped into your life?

Was it this year or last when she approached you on the playground? Did you see her in the neighborhood, or at somebody’s birthday party? Or maybe it happened like it did for Nicky: in “Barkus” by Patricia MacLachlan, illustrated by Marc Boutavant, her BFF walked in on a leash.

“Barkus” by Patricia MacLachlan, illustrated by Marc Boutavant c.2017, Chronicle Kids, $14.99 / $20.99 Canada, 56 pages

Uncle Everton was Nicky’s favorite uncle. He was always full of surprises so when he told her that he had a present for her, Nicky knew it would be something good.

It was – and it was something BIG, too. Her surprise was a huge, brown, furry, swishy-tailed dog named Barkus. Uncle Everton said Barkus was the “Smartest dog in the whole world.” Barkus could sit and whirl and shake hands. He hardly barked, and he never bit anybody. Nicky loved Barkus immediately.

Barkus loved Nicky, too, but he was a bit of “a sneak.” One day, he followed her to school and, because he was smart enough to sit quietly and help with lessons, Mrs. Gregolian said he could stay.

On another day, Uncle Everton sent a package. When Nicky opened it, she got another big surprise: the package held a present for Barkus because it was his birthday! So what can you give a smart dog who has everything? How about lots of snow to play in, a “no school” day, and a few toys? How about a birthday party, with lots of noise?

Having a big furry dog was great, but Nicky still grew bored sometimes. Even Barkus needed “something new and exciting” so when he came home one day, carrying a tiny object carefully in his mouth, Nicky knew he’d found something that would make their summer even better. It would mean less room in their tent, when camping. It would mean different kinds of snacks at snack-time. It would mean a whole new part to the Nicky-and-Barkus story because Barkus found a baby! A small, furry baby, but not the kind of baby you might think a big, furry dog would love…

You’ve told your child that she must read at least one book this summer. She can’t slide through vacation without books, period. So why not make that one book enjoyable, by giving her “Barkus” to read?

For animal-loving boys and girls who are just starting to tackle chapter books, author Patricia MacLachlan and illustrator Marc Boutavant present them with a slight challenge that kids can really sink their teeth into. The title character is a big, goofy mutt with brains, and adventures that are mischievous but not malicious. Nicky is Barkus’ perfect companion and the narrator of this tale. She’s responsible, happy, kind, eager for fun, and the sort of kid anyone would want for a friend.

This book contains no drama. There’s no edginess to it, and no lessons to be learned here. It’s pure entertainment, and 7-to-10-year-olds will love it for that – and if that’s what you want for your child this summer, “Barkus” is a step up.

Terri Schlichenmeyer