This book was wonderful, I was crying, laughing and having my heart tugged at. The Narrator (Sophie Amoss) did a fabulous job. Narrating a 12 year old girl is a challenge, and she did multiple kids without them sounding whining. Amazing choice for this book!

Glory is a 12 year old who finds herself in the situation that her mom left, her dad is on the road for work, and she is placed with her grandparents. The adults first try to help by saying the mom is "just" on vacation, but with no one knowing where mom is, it is soon found out that no one knows where she is or if she would come back.

Children know more then we sometimes give them credit for, and not wanting to be underfoot Glory tries to fill her time by not being at home. Hanging out at the "park" she stumbles across Gus a huge bloodhound and their story takes off from there.

This book doesn't have all the answers and some are left open ended, but it is a happy one that focusing on what you have is even more realistic and I am glad that books are being written like this now.

3.75/5⭐️

This was a sweet and cute story with found family, friendship, deeper themes, positive messages, a bit of mystery, and a bond between a girl and her furry companion. Glory is a fun character who loves books (especially Agatha Christie), mysteries, solving puzzles, and being curious (definitely not noisy). There were some funny moments with Gus and his dog antics, tender moments with Glory and her grandpa, and I loved the friendship between Glory and Rosemary.

Quote from the book:
Rosemary to Glory: “Are you the kind of person who dog-ears pages?"
Glory: “Never. I use a bookmark like a responsible person.”

This book hits on the harder topics of what it's like for a parent to leave, and the results/impacts that has on a child. I thought it was realistic overall, and showcased what kids truly do experience while keeping it appropriate for younger readers.

If you're a fan of books like Wish by Barbara O'Connor or Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo, I think you will enjoy this book!

I listened to the audiobook and thought Sophie Amoss did a good job/was a good fit for reading this story. If audiobooks are your preferred method of reading, I'd recommend checking it out!

Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for sending me an advanced audiobook copy to honestly rate and review. I was not obligated to give a positive review, all thoughts are 100% my own.