Critically acclaimed author Cammie McGovern presents a heartwarming and humorous middle grade novel about the remarkable bond that forms between an aspiring service dog and an autistic boy in need of a friend. "Joyful, inspiring, and completely winning, Chester and Gus is unforgettable," proclaimed Katherine Applegate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Newbery Medal winner The One and Only Ivan.

Chester has always wanted to become a service dog. When he fails his certification test, though, it seems like that dream will never come true--until a family adopts him. They want him to be a companion for their ten-year-old son, Gus, who has autism. But Gus acts so differently than anyone Chester has ever met. He never wants to pet Chester, and sometimes he doesn't even want Chester in the room. Chester's not sure how to help Gus since this isn't exactly the job he trained for--but he's determined to figure it out. Because after all, Gus is now his person.

In the spirit of beloved classics like Because of Winn-Dixie, Shiloh, and Old Yeller, Cammie McGovern's heartfelt novel--told from Chester's point of view--explores the extraordinary friendship between a child and a dog with a poignant and modern twist.

--School Library Journal (starred review)

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: HarperCollins
Published: 04/04/2017
ISBN: 9780062330680
Pages: 272
Weight: 0.70lbs
Size: 8.20h x 5.70w x 0.90d

Review Citations: Publishers Weekly 01/30/2017
Kirkus Reviews 02/15/2017
Hornbook Guide to Children 01/01/2018 - Recommended, Satisfactory

Accelerated Reader Quiz #/Name: 189328 / Chester and Gus
Reading Level: 4.3 / Interest Level: Middle Grade / Point Value: 7