What a great read. It's a heartwarming story that needs to be in every school library. It's full of emotions and Marlene and Red's story will touch your heart.
I received a complimentary copy from Star Bright Books via NetGalley and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Set in rural Tennessee of the 1930’s, this is a novel about a little girl learning about both the joys and sorrows of growing up. As a result of the times, Marlene and her family struggle through the Depression, and sorrowfully share the hurt of two close friends who experience violent racism.
There are happy moments also, times of strong family bonding and celebrations. Best of all, the love between Marlene and an old coonhound named Red makes this a truly heartwarming read. A must-read for lovers of dog books in the tradition of Old Yeller, and The Incredible Journey.
*A box of Kleenex is a necessity while reading this; it’s a “five-hanky” story, for sure*

**I received a digital copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.**

What a wonderful story! Set in the 1930's in the Appalachian region, it tells the story of a girl who desperately wants a dog, the lengths she goes to get one and the lessons she learns along the way. It starts out as a lighthearted read but deals with heavier topics as the story progresses. The ride the reader goes on is emotional but it is worth the ride.
There are things that may be difficult for a sensitive reader to read so please check content warnings if need be. Sharing them in a review would be spoiling the reading experience.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this one in exchange for my honest thoughts.

It’s the 1930s in Tennessee and 10 year old Marlene is bringing eggs into town to the grocery store when she sees a scrawny coon hound. Cranky Mr. Arthur chases after it threatening to hurt it because the dog gets into his garbage. Marlene tells her parents she wants that dog. They say they can’t afford it, but she’s determined to catch him. People tell her she has to win the dog’s trust and in time she does. Marlene names him Red and he comes to live at their house even though Mama isn’t crazy about him. When some chickens go missing, Mama thinks Red took them, but come to find out it was a fox and Red gets the fox. Mama starts to like the dog a little more. Then one day when Marlene and her younger brother are out they encounter a bear. What happens? That ending…wow.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for the eARC of this book. All opinions are my own.