Reviewed by Sarah Bean the Green Bean Teen Queen for TeensReadToo.com

Dessa Dean is afraid to venture outside her cabin in Colorado. Not long ago, Dessa Dean and her mama were trapped outside in the snow - and mama didn't make it back alive.

Dessa Dean is tortured by daymares (nightmares that come in the daytime) and the tips of her ears, which were wounded with frostbite in the accident that claimed her mama, keep burning. She can't bring herself to leave the safety of inside and is wracked by grief.

When Dessa Dean finds a dog outside, things start to change. The dog has a sore leg and needs her help. Dessa Dean's daddy isn't thrilled with the idea of adding a dog to the family, especially since the dog has a fear of its own. The dog is afraid of enclosed spaces and doesn't like to have the cabin door shut.

Together, these two companions can learn to get past their fears and help each other heal.

THE LEANIN' DOG is a beautifully written story of healing and hope. Any animal lover will find something special about the story and enjoy the relationship between Dessa Dean and her newfound dog. ( )

Dessa Dean's mom has just died, and Dessa can't even bring herself to leave the house she's so despondent. When a stray dog comes to the door, he ends up being just the kind of friend she needs to heal the hurts and live again. Sweet as can be, just like the cover.

Wonderful dog story about a girl who is grieving following her mother's death

Very emotional. Mom dies, daughter cabin bound. Honest. ( )

it's always good when the dog sticks around until the last page. It's touch and go for a while, but hard work wins. ( )