STORM DOG

Storm Dog is a heart warming and affirming middle grade novel about Ariel, who learns to appreciate herself by teaching an ex Military Working Dog how to dance, by L. M. Elliott, the acclaimed author of Hamilton and Peggy! and many other novels for middle grade and teen readers.

Whip-smart Ariel does not fit in. Only in the winds of the Blue Ridge Mountains and spring storms that mirror the turmoil in her heart does she really feel at home. Her brother understands her, but he is in Afghanistan. Her father has not been the same since George
deployed. Her mother focuses on Ariel's gorgeous sister. When Gloria is selected to be an Apple Blossom Parade princess, Ariel feels even more the outsider and takes to the hills. There, during a raging storm, Ariel finds a lost dog who leads her to the safety of a cabin and Sergeant Josie, a former Army K 9 handler. Together - with music, dog dancing, and a storm child crazy plan - the three outcasts find themselves.

In this whimsical tale of self discovery, L. M. Elliott captures the flavor of Virginia's hunt country and Appalachia, while exploring definitions of beauty and belonging. Storm Dog will make readers proud to dance to their won rhythms.

Growing up in Virginia, L. M. Elliott constantly brought home injured rabbits and field mice, and spent as many hours as possible playing in the woods and streams. She thought about becoming a veterinarian until she fell in love with writing and making music. Like Ariel's big brother, Elliott was once a drum major and believes in the power of music to change lives. She and her family have adopted and adored many rescue dogs. Writing Storm Dog was a particular joy, taking her back to her first loves. Her other books are award winning historical novels, including Hamilton and Peggy! A Revolutionary Friendship Da Vinci's Tiger, Give Me Liberty, Flying South, and her WWII works, Under a War torn Sky and its sequel A Troubled Peace.