Lost Stick

by Anoosha Syed (Author) Anoosha Syed (Illustrator)

Reading Level: 2nd − 3rd Grade

A delightful twist on a lost pet story that takes an adorable pup around the world to track down what he thinks is his best friend's prized possession--from the critically acclaimed creator of That's Not My Name!, Bilal Cooks Daal, and I Am Perfectly Designed.

Milo loves to make his owner Louise happy because she's his favorite person in the world. While they're strolling through the park one day, Louise picks a twig up off the ground and says to Milo, "This is Stick". She throws Stick across the grass and Milo excitedly brings it back to her. Milo doesn't know why they do this over and over again, but he knows that he can put a smile on her face by running after Stick. So, when Louise throws Stick a little too far, Milo is determined to go the distance too.

Milo starts searching all over the neighborhood for Stick--while Louise simultaneously searches for Milo--but there's one problem: all the sticks look the same! Which one is Louise's stick? Milo sets out on a grand adventure for a little pup, and while his quest takes him all over the globe, he learns that home is where he really wants to be. Anoosha Syed stretches her storytelling talents with this hilarious and tender friendship story.

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Hardcover
$18.99

Kirkus

A delightful, heartwarming romp.

School Library Journal

Starred Review

PreS-Gr 2--Milo, a black and white dog, loves going to the park with his favorite human, Louise, who has tan skin and black hair. One day, they find a wonderful thing: a stick! Louise likes to throw the stick, or "Stick" as Milo sees it, and is so happy when Milo brings it back that she wants to do it again and again. But when Louise throws Stick and Milo can't find it, Milo will do whatever it takes to make Louise happy. The story diverges more deliberately here as Milo disappears into the wider world, searching for Stick, and as Louise, bereft without her puppy, searches everywhere for Milo. The two perspectives will bring the house down among knowing preschoolers or anyone accustomed to well-meaning misunderstandings. The captivating, brightly colored artwork shows Milo's journey for Stick and Louise's search for Milo, depicting their parallel travels and their affection for the other. Young readers will enjoy looking at the two points of view. VERDICT Highly detailed, energetic artwork and the ultimate happy reunion are sure to please in this fun, lively read for early readers--an excellent choice for all.--Debbie Tanner

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Review quotes

Praise for Lost Stick by Anoosha Syed: 


"He [Milo] is a lovable, stalwart, and altogether wonderful picaresque hero. The lively, bright, and highly detailed illustrations add dimension and provide sharp-eyed readers with hints about Louise's emotions, and especially her part as an instigator of the proceedings. Even the endpapers evoke a chuckle. A delightful, heartwarming romp." —Kirkus Reviews

Anoosha Syed
Anoosha Syed is a Pakistani Canadian illustrator and character designer for animation. She has illustrated many beloved books, including APALA Honor book Bilal Cooks Daal and her author debut, That's Not My Name! She lives in Toronto with her husband and Link the cat, who knows how to play fetch but refuses to bring things all the way back. Find her online at AnooshaSyed.com.
Classification
Fiction
ISBN-13
9780593405192
Lexile Measure
570
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
Viking Books for Young Readers
Publication date
March 26, 2024
Series
-
BISAC categories
JUV039060 - Juvenile Fiction | Social Themes | Friendship
JUV002070 - Juvenile Fiction | Animals | Dogs
JUV068000 - Juvenile Fiction | Travel
Library of Congress categories
Lost and found possessions
Dogs
Picture books
Voyages and travels
Staffs (Sticks, canes, etc.)

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