How I Got a Life and a Dog — Art Corriveau

Nicky Flynn's life just got a whole lot harder. His parents are going through a messy divorce, and as a result he's starting a new life, in a new city, in a new school. Now his mom has brought home Reggie, a German shepherd from the animal shelter. At first Nicky isn't sure about Reggie, but soon he discovers that Reggie -- who used to be a seeing-eye dog -- is a true friend he can rely on. But when Nick tries to reconnect with his dad, he puts everything on the line, including the life of his new best friend.

Art Corriveau is a brilliant voice in middle-grade fiction, and How I Got a Life and a Dog is a heartfelt and honest look at the effects of divorce and the wonders of friendship.