Eva Ibbotson

Perhaps the acquisition of a governess who wears a miniature replica of a Viking spear as a hat pin could spell trouble. Not here: young Maia’s caretaker turns out to be a lifesaver; it’s the scheming relatives who present problems. Escaping their clutches, the nanny and her charge flee into the 19th-century Amazonian rain forest, entering into a grand-scale adventure that has the makings of a classic.

Hal is lonely and knows that a dog would become his companion and best friend. His adventure begins when his wealthy parents return a rented pup leaving Hal with only one option: running away. The adventure involves a poor but worthy friend, valiant dogs, and a series of improbably but engaging events that culminate happily.