Callum Murdoch did not travel all the way from Scotland to Upper Canada to work as a common farm laborer. Callum is a scholar, who dreams of becoming a teacher or a lawyer. When his father dies, so do the 15-year-old’s options, and he is forced to live with his uncle’s family — pioneers who are carving a farm out of virgin wooded land. An impulsive decision to rescue a beaten dog from her abuser costs Callum his small reserve of cash, but the good will behind his act pays off. This realistic portrait of the physical demands and relentless work of establishing a pioneer farm combines everyday family life with an unexpected element of fantasy, as it becomes increasingly clear that “Dog” is far more than your average canine. (Ages 10–13)

Fifteen-year-old Callum Murdoch knows he's a fool. He's just arrived from Scotland, and he's already handed over his money to a total stranger. And for what? A filthy, half-starved dog and a carved box that he's been warned never to open. Now he'll have to explain his impulsive action to Uncle Rory, the only relative willing to give him a home.
Callum is unprepared for the grinding physical labor of farm work. His only source of comfort is Dog. She seems to know all his secret wishes and fears. With Dog by his side, Callum gains the courage to face life in the New World. But when the mysterious carved box is accidentally broken open, Callum is faced with astonishing revelations -- and difficult decisions.