Though it is classified as a children's book, Orville will be cherished by anyone who loves dogs. I purchased this book because Haven Kimmel is a favorite author of mine and I found in this story the same laid-back tone and sweet, teasing humor that I loved in her memoir "A Girl Named Zippy."

Orville is an ugly dog, but he is special too. By just sniffing a person, Orville can learn about their past, their dearest wishes and what kind of person they are. The story is quite sad in places as Orville is lonely and does not have a happy home, but then he falls in love with the girl across the road and the story becomes much brighter. In the end, everyone finds what they most wished for.

While the reading level states 4 to 8, I think that adults or older readers will be more likely to understand and appreciate this short book. Even though it has a fairly happy ending, it is a melancholy story that may not appeal to younger readers. The sadness of Orville's life is poignantly described and knowing that type of life is common to so many unloved dogs really pulls at the heart, especially if you are a dog person.

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