Lulu and the Dog From the Sea (Lulu Book 2)

What I Loved:

This is a charming, thoroughly engaging story that should keep young readers turning pages eagerly. The narrative is lively and easy to read without talking down to the reader. The characters are interesting (even the animals have lovely personalities), and the adventures Lulu and Mellie get involved in feel real and interesting.

I especially enjoyed the theme of family and friendship. Lulu's parents are very involved in her life and extend their love toward Lulu's cousin Mellie as well. All of them are committed to helping each other achieve their dreams (Mellie wants to build the most amazing kite ever, Lulu's mom wants to read six books while on vacation etc.), and so Lulu comes from a place of support and love as she sets about trying to rescue the dog from the sea.

What Left Me Wanting More:

I really loved this book from start to finish. The only drawback for me was when Lulu thought that the best way to get around her parents saying no to her idea of adopting the dog from the sea was to stop arguing with them and just do it anyway. There's another instance in the story when Lulu goes against her parents' instructions and acts rashly and there are natural consequences for that so that it acts as a moral lesson for young readers. I would've liked to see a moral lesson applied to the idea that if your parents say no you should just do it anyway if you want it badly enough.

Final Verdict:

Lulu and the Dog From the Sea is a charming adventure full of fun, family, and heartwarming moments. I recommend it.