Description

A Heartfelt Adventure About Friendship, Courage, and Rescuing a Dog in Need

In Fearless, Jessie Nelson and her dad move to a small town in southern Minnesota while her mom is deployed overseas. Adjusting to a new place is not easy, but Jessie begins to feel less alone after forming a friendship with Nicky, a theater-loving classmate, and Oscar, who understands what it is like to have family serving in the military far from home. As their friendship grows, the three discover an illegal puppy mill hidden in a barn and are faced with a difficult choice about what to do next.

Jessie decides to rescue one of the dogs and bring her home, hoping that this small act of courage can make a real difference. Soon, Jessie realizes that keeping the dog a secret from her dad and grandpa is difficult. She relies on her friends for help as she figures out how to care for the distressed dog while also navigating change, responsibility, anxiety about her mother, and uncertainty. Fearless is a warm and meaningful story about friendship, compassion, and finding bravery in everyday moments. It encourages readers to consider how helping others can help us heal and grow as well.

Perfect for dog lovers, military families, and anyone who believes small acts of kindness can make a big difference.

Key Features:

Award-Winning Middle Grade Novel: Winner of the Moonbeam Children's Book Award and the Midwest Independent Publishers Award
Thoughtful Representation of Military Families: Addresses deployment, separation, worry, communication changes, and adjustment
Meaningful Animal Rescue Plot: The illegal puppy mill rescue highlights responsibility, compassion, and taking action to help others
Realistic Friendship Dynamics: Shows how new friendships can offer support, understanding, and shared strength during times of change
Perfect for Ages 8 to 12: Engaging, accessible storytelling suitable for independent reading, family reading, classrooms, libraries, and book clubs
Strong SEL Themes: Supports conversations about courage, empathy, decision-making, and caring for both people and animals

Also available in Spanish: El secreto de Cross Kennel - a warm and inspiring edition perfect for bilingual families, classrooms, and dual immersion schools.