Jelly Bean

What if no one wanted a guinea pig?  Ms. Kim had said that we just had to keep trying, even if it took a while.

I could keep trying.

But how?

Suzannah has always wanted a pet of her own, but she lives in an apartment where there are absolutely no pets allowed. What she can do is volunteer at a local animal shelter. Though she's the youngest member of the Shelter Pet Squad, Suzannah quickly finds herself making friends with the kids and bonding with the animals.

Then a girl just her age brings a guinea pig named Jelly Bean to the shelter. Suzannah promises that she'll find the little creature the perfect home. But what if no one wants a guinea pig?

In this charming illustrated chapter book series, the Shelter Pet Squad kids find the perfect homes for animals in need.

Awards and Honors

2014 ABC Best Books for Children list by American Booksellers Association

"This heartwarming early chapter book reminds readers that good friends and the chance to make a positive difference are often closer than they may believe. Upbeat and relatable, this promises to be the start to a series that will win over young animal enthusiasts."  School Library Journal

"Lord's own newly adopted shelter pet, a guinea pig, was the inspiration for this first entry in the Shelter Pet Squad series, and she artfully weaves information about animals, shelters, and pet care throughout. Easy vocabulary, uncomplicated sentences, generous dialogue, large font, and friendly illustrations make the book accessible."  Booklist

"Lord's deft pacing and the specific details of shelter volunteering (the kids receive clear enough instructions on setting up treat 'challenges' for the dogs, for example, that readers could replicate them at home) will keep kids captivated."  Bulletin of the Center for Children's Book

"Recommended."  Library Media Connection

Nominated for Kids' Choice Awards:

Beverly Cleary Book Award (Oregon)

OTTER Award (Washington)