I was asked to read this book on short notice last month. I am part of a jury for a children's book awards and while we were discussing the "short list", we realized that many of us hadn't read this submission. I took it home and began reading that night. Considering the amount of inappropriate and unoriginal books I had to suffer through, I found this book quite the opposite.
Goatnappers is written by Rosa Jordan, a resident of British Columbia, Canada. It is the "sequel" to Lost Goat Lane (2004). It takes place in a farm in rural Florida and where Lost Goat Lane centers around the oldest daughter Kate, Goatnappers is told from the point of view of Justin, the oldest son.
Justin has just received a "coveted" spot on the varsity baseball team however, he is in dire need of a bike to get to practices. He decides to sells his baby goat at an auction for cash. But alas, life is always that simple. Soon Justin finds out that the new owner is more of a business man than a true animal lover (yes, you can be both). The book is fun to read. There are some colourful characters and adults are portrayed in a positive light, sans Mr. Grimsted.
This book deals with subject matter such as divorce. Justin has to make a decision regarding which parent to live with. Again, both parents are seen in a positive light which creates a bigger problem for Justin.
Goatnappers would make a good read-aloud for younger children and late-middle school children should be able to read it. I would recommend this book.
Currently reading: The Secret Garden (almost finished)
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