Chester and Gus

Chester is a service dog-in-training but when he doesn’t pass, he is taken in by a family to support Gus, a fifth-grader who is non-verbal and on the autism spectrum. Chester and Gus develop a strong bond and Chester is able to communicate with Gus and communicate his needs to his family. Issues arise, though, when the school won’t let Chester accompany Gus as he doesn’t have his certification. Told through Chester’s eyes, this novel for grades 3-7 can promote discussion of inclusion, service dogs, and how schools and peers can provide positive spaces for all children. Suitable as a read-aloud, for literature circles, book reports, and silent reading.