Fred has always dreamed of becoming part of The Dog Squad, a fictional television show with humans voicing the roles played by dogs. Fred has never had much luck with owners, but his current one is the worst, training Fred to be a vicious guard dog. After he is abandoned, Fred is picked up and delivered to a shelter where he auditions to be in a Broadway show, but that is not meant to be, so Fred finds himself as temporary replacement for the injured lead, Duke, from Dog Squad.

Dog Squad is a cute mystery/adventure about dogs who can talk to each other and communicate with humans. Fred is the likable stray whose only real ambition is to find a home. The kidnapping mystery just adds a layer to a book that is already filled with so much heart. Kudos to Chris Grabenstein for using actual Broadway Animal Trainers who find loving homes for dogs as inspiration for this story. Overall, Dog Squad is a fun middle grade book for dog lovers everywhere. ( )

The author's late dog--a rescue named Fred who appeared on Broadway--inspired this heroic romp. Fred (of the book) is a big fan of the TV show "Dog Squad" and its lead hero Duke. Fred's own life is less than heroic: abusive human Big Tony has kicked him out and Fred ends up picked up by the dog catcher. But Fred's life takes a turn when dog trainer Jenny picks him up at the shelter and, because he looks a lot like the real Duke, uses him in "Dog Squad" as a stand-in for the real Duke, who is injured. Despite his star status, Fred's basic goodness (vs. Duke's snarling narcissism) appeals to his fellow actors Nala and Scruffy and leads to real-life heroic acts. Chapters are short and full of action; the quick pacing will make a lively read-aloud for young families, especially those who love dogs! ( )