|
Dogtown
Last updated Tuesday, July 7, 2026
Author: Katherine Applegate and Gennifer Choldenko
Illustrator: Wallace West
Date of Publication: 2023
ISBN: 1250811600
Grade Level: 3rd (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Jul. 2026
Synopsis:
Dogtown is a shelter for stray dogs, misbehaving dogs, and discarded robot dogs, whose owners have outgrown them. Chance, a real dog, has been in Dogtown since her owners unwittingly left her with irresponsible dog-sitters who skipped town.
Metal Head is a robot dog who dreams of being back in a real home. And Mouse is a mouse who has the run of Dogtown, pilfering kibble, and performing clever feats to protect the dogs he loves.
When Chance and Metal Head embark on an adventure to find their forever homes, there is danger, cheese sandwiches, a charging station, and some unexpected kindnesses along the way.
| Note to readers: |
| • |
Make sure you check out the cool list of ways to help on page 339.
|
| Discussion topics for before reading: |
| • |
Are all the dog leashes the same? Why?
|
| • |
Do you have a robot dog? Any other pets?
Vocabulary
|
| • |
Moniker -special name or nickname that a person, animal, or character is known by.
|
| • |
Misguided - making a choice or having an idea that seems right at first but is actually not the best choice.
|
| • |
Animosity-strong feelings of anger or dislike toward someone or something.
|
| • |
Resilient-not giving up when things are hard.
|
| • |
Predicament-problem or situation where you are not sure what to do.
|
| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
| • |
Why do you think Chance feels different from the other dogs?
|
| • |
What makes someone a good friend?
|
| • |
How do Chance and Metal Head learn to work together?
|
| • |
What does "home" mean to you?
|
| • |
How can we show kindness to animals and people who feel left out?
|
| Craft ideas: |
| • |
Make your own Robot dog (or paper based on available materials). Metal Head or Chance can be your inspiration!
|
| • |
Make a dog collar tag for Chance. Include name, favorite activity and personality traits.
|
| Special activities: |
| • |
Design an Ad Campaign for a shelter dog. Draw the dog and include reasons that someone should adopt them. Be persuasive!
|
*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you don't have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!
|
