Wondrous Rex

By Patricia MacLachlan

A writer's block is shattered by a magical dog, sparking creativity and change.

5.3/7 Bookroo expert·3.7/5 Goodreads · 600 ratings

88 pages· 7,218 words· Est. 1 hour read

$15.99Save 6%

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Bookroo's summary

Grace's aunt, Lily, struggles with writer's block, her stories stagnant and uninspired. Desperate for a breakthrough, she seeks an assistant. Enter Rex, a Labrador retriever with a knack for magic. As Rex weaves his charm, he not only transforms Lily's writing but also ignites Grace's own storytelling journey. Can this wondrous dog help them find the words they've been searching for? Discover the enchanting tale of creativity, companionship, and the unexpected ways inspiration can arrive.

From the publisher

Newbery Medal-winning author Patricia MacLachlan has written a magical and funny tale about the joy found in using words, sharing stories, and loving a wondrous dog: Rex.Grace’s aunt is a writer. She works with words every day and teaches Grace interesting words like “melancholy” and “delirious.”But Lily is often “flummoxed” by her writing. Her stories don’t go anywhere, her desk is a mess, and her writer’s group can’t help.So Lily posts an ad for an assistant: A writer of books needs an assistant, a coach, a helper, for inspiration and some magic!The next day, Grace opens the door, and there is Rex: a Labrador retriever who will change Grace’s life, and Lily’s. The word “amazing” is an everyday word for Rex, who inspires Lily, and helps Grace find the words to write her own story.

At a glance

Format
Pages: 88
Words: 7,218
Reading age: 8–12
Audience: Middle Grade

Themes & topics

Books about writing Books about vocabulary Books about authors Books about dogs Books about family

After the last page

Talk about it together

Gracy, Lily, and Rex like to find the right word for a situation. Did you learn any new words, or did you have a favorite word one of these writers used?

Lily posted the ad for an assistant. Sometimes we need a little help with something, but it's hard to ask for it. What is something in your life you could ask for help doing or learning, and who might you ask?

What readers & critics say