Book excerpt: 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!