Want a guaranteed smile from your youngster(s) today? This book will have everyone grinning. A great author has written this book for ages 5-8. (Some may have read her other books, including Tale of Despereaux (ages 7-10), and Because of Winn Dixie – for a slightly older age group. If not, a treat will be in store for you.)It’s hard to resist a dog who is lonely. But when Rosie finally bumps into some potential buddies, she’s not exactly sure what to do. Her first experience is startling, and not in a good way. But, after a little discomfort, there is, as Mrs. Potts in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast sings, “just a little change…” and things kind of start to work out.This is great for emerging readers and I’m pretty sure most kids will begin to recognize Rosie’s name fairly quickly. It helps that illustrator Harry Bliss captures marvelous expressions (quizzical, anxious, relieved) on the dogs’ faces; and he uses just the right, natural colors. This book will appeal equally to boys and girls.The story includes some not-so-subtle, humorous tips about how NOT to attempt a friendship. Cheerful book, happy ending.