An inspiring story about a 4th grade girl (Adalyn) who struggles with anxiety and self-regulation and the therapy puppy who provided the friendship that made all the difference. Adalyn is a very smart but very lonely fourth grader who loves animals and science. She is not very good at finding friends, but she is a whiz at science . Adalyn's best friends are the animals in the science room, which is just about her favorite place in the whole wide world. Adalyn finds most people very confusing and frustrating , which causes her a great deal of worry , and sometimes gets her into trouble . Clare is a therapy puppy who has been assigned to help Adalyn find friends . This is a big assignment for a 3-month-old puppy, but she doesn't have to figure it all out on her own. Clare draws support from memories of her own mother's wisdom ; some really caring teachers ; and the life lessons of her animal friends - a friendly ferret, two very smart rats, an exotic bird, and a 3-legged guinea pig. Their stories will entertain , delight and amaze you! Readers will gain insight into what it is like to live with anxiety , as well as understanding the importance of friendship . Benefits of this early chapter book for your children or students at home and in the classroom : Social emotional learning (SEL) Empathy-building (Adalyn needs to learn skills, not be punished) Emotional Regulation (Mindfulness, breathing and sensory awareness) Positive behavior support Benefits of Canine Therapy (service and therapy dogs) Bibliotherapy-related character study A great read for ages 8-12, grades 3-6 . Grab an extra for the classroom. Makes a great teacher gift for the holidays!