There is so much work for a boy to do in the serious town of Puddling Center that eleven-year-old Willie can’t even go to school. So when Willie meets Professor Petit and his five “Highly Trained Dogs”—each with its own special talent—he’s delighted. Maybe their traveling show will shake things up! But then Petit’s rival, Hulk Hoskins, rolls into town with a circus tiger, and the professor and one of his dogs end up in big trouble. Now it’s up to Willie and his new canine friends to save the day and put on a show this town will never forget!

Back in print for the first time in decades, this 1953 novel by Newbery winner Carol Ryrie Brink will have kids rooting for cheerful Willie, honest Professor Petit, and the amazing Highly Trained Dogs.

Introduction by: Nancy Pearl