Lola

Reach for this book when your child is preparing to welcome a new pet or is struggling with how to interact with a shy, fearful peer. While part of the Puppy Place series, Lola stands out as a gentle primer on emotional intelligence and the specific art of earning trust. It follows the Peterson family as they foster a timid Chihuahua mix who has had a difficult start in life. The story provides a realistic look at the patience required for animal rescue, moving beyond the excitement of a new puppy to address the responsibility of caring for a vulnerable creature. It is a perfect choice for elementary-aged readers who are developing their capacity for empathy and learning that love often looks like giving someone space to grow at their own pace.