Even if Kenzie's dog had somehow managed to escape from the family's fenced backyard, Kenzie knows the big, lovable chocolate Lab wouldn't have gone far. As they search for Clancy, Kenzie and his dad keep hearing stories about other dogs that have gone missing too. When Kenzie finds Clancy's ID tag and spots a van loaded up with dog food, he knows he has to investigate further. With the help of a schoolmate whose dog has also disappeared, Kenzie uncovers an illegal operation that grabs dogs off the street and turns them into bloodthirsty killers.
"Reluctant or struggling readers, especially those who love realistic mysteries, will be drawn to this problem-solving story, a quick, high interest/low reading level cloak-and-dagger adventure illustrating the injustice of dog fighting."
– School Library Connection
"McClintock skillfully builds the readers' anticipation as details about the missing dogs and their deadly surroundings are slowly revealed from both Kenzie and Clancy's perspective. Gayle is a smart, tenacious and brave female protagonist that serves as a strong counterpart to Kenzie's resourceful and rational leads. Subtle details add to the tension in this hi-lo read."
– Resource Links
CCBC Best Books | 2018 | Commended
