From Publishers Weekly
When Martin and Peter encounter the lonely ghosts of a farmer and a sheepdog, they try to reunite the pair. At the same time, the boys begin to appreciate the companionship and loving nature of Rosie, their own dog. Wright's eerie, frequently somber details will easily beguile readers: "Moonlight shone right through the mournful face, the raggedy trousers held up with red suspenders, and the tattered shirt. He looked like a ghostly scarecrow." Forthright descriptions of the novel's picturesque setting create a marked contrast to the dim and haunting images. "From the top of Popcorn Hill you could see for miles. Fruit trees, with blossoms that looked like popcorn, dotted the hillside. Beyond were meadows and a creek, and there were woods everywhere." These youngsters are flesh-and-blood creations (unlike some of their encounters); the most reluctant readers will be cheering them on every step of the way. With a skill and style somewhat unusual for this genre, Ritz's handsomely shaded, full-page drawings add considerable atmosphere. Ages 8-12.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 3-5-- Peter and Martin want a big dog like the stray sheepdog that is roaming around their new cabin, but have to settle for a small but lively mutt from the animal shelter instead. The brothers hear mysterious laughter at night, and discover that the cabin is haunted by a lonely ghost. When the sheepdog also proves to be a ghost, they decide to solve the problem by getting the two together. The combination of supernatural and pet themes works well. The excellent full-page pencil drawings are realistically rendered and appropriately spooky when they should be. The scary parts are much milder than many of Wright's previous books, making this gentle story suitable for younger children.
- Elaine Knight, Lincoln Elementary Schools, ILCopyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.
