Emily Ecton is the author of The Great Pet Heist series as well as a number of middle grade books published under the names Emily Ecton and Emily Fairlie. She is also a former writer and producer for Wait, Wait...Don't Tell Me!, the Peabody Award­-winning comedy news quiz on NPR. She lives in Virginia, with Howdy, a dog who dreams of someday going to a supermarket. Visit her at EmilyEcton.com.

Dave Mottram is an illustrator living in Ohio who worked as a graphic designer for many years, which led him to pursue his passion for illustration. He paints traditionally and digitally with color and layers and line. He loves tacos, animals, tikis, and nerding out over art supplies. Visit him at DaveMottram.com.

"[A]n engaging ensemble with well-known quirks and foibles . . . The general tone may be comedic, but the issue of abandoned pets and a concurrent plotline involving a young resident and her deployed aunt add whiffs of more serious themes. Readers will wish to see more of Mottram's illustrations, which are full of uncommonly winsome small animals."--Kirkus Reviews

"Delightful illustrations . . . will charm readers and have them rooting for every lost dog to find the perfect home. . . . A solid choice for readers looking for something light and entertaining. This could be a good read-aloud for those rowdy times after lunch or recess to help students settle and refocus."--School Library Journal

Publisher: Bound to Stay Bound Books

Pub date: 2025-11-11

Length: 279 pages