The dog who found me - (The Ethan and Rusty Series Book 1)

A Heartfelt Middle Grade & Young Teen Novel About Friendship, Bullying, Courage, and the Healing Power of a Dog

Sometimes, the friend you need most finds you when you least expect it.

Life isn't easy for Ethan. School feels overwhelming, making friends is difficult, and every day brings new challenges that leave him questioning where he belongs. Between bullying, self-doubt, and learning struggles, Ethan begins to wonder if anyone truly understands him.

Then one unforgettable day, a scrappy, loyal dog named Rusty wanders into his life and nothing is ever the same.

As their bond grows stronger, Rusty becomes more than just a pet. He becomes Ethan's greatest companion, his source of comfort, and the friend who helps him discover courage, confidence, and hope. Together, they prove that even the smallest acts of kindness, loyalty, and unconditional love can change a life forever.

The Dog Who Found Me is an emotional coming-of-age novel that explores resilience, friendship, family, and the extraordinary connection between a boy and his dog. Filled with heartfelt moments, humor, and hope, it's a story that will stay with readers long after the final page.

Perfect for readers who enjoy meaningful contemporary fiction with relatable characters, emotional depth, and inspiring life lessons.

Perfect For

• Readers ages 13+
• Middle grade and young teen readers
• Fans of realistic coming-of-age stories
• Dog lovers and animal lovers
• Parents, teachers, and school libraries
• Readers navigating bullying, anxiety, self-confidence, or learning challenges
• Anyone who enjoys heartfelt stories about friendship, family, and resilience

Themes Readers Will Discover

• Overcoming bullying and finding inner strength
• Building confidence and self-belief
• The healing power of friendship and unconditional love
• The extraordinary bond between a boy and his dog
• Family, forgiveness, and personal growth
• Kindness, loyalty, empathy, and hope

Whether you're searching for a middle grade novel, young adult coming-of-age story, dog adventure book, book about bullying and resilience, friendship novel for teens, or an inspiring story about finding hope through unexpected friendships, The Dog Who Found Me is a heartfelt journey that reminds us we are never truly alone.

The Dog Who Found Me is the unforgettable first installment in the Ethan and Rusty Series—a trilogy filled with adventure, emotion, and unforgettable characters. Start the journey today and discover how one remarkable dog can change a life forever.

Product Details

• Series: The Ethan and Rusty Series (Book 1 of 3)
• Reading Age: 13 years and up
• Print Length: 80 pages
• Trim Size: 5.5 × 8.5 inches
• Format: Premium Paperback

Reading Order

1. The Dog Who Found Me
2. The Dog Who Stayed
3. Pawprints Toward Tomorrow

A touching story of friendship, resilience, and the unconditional love of a dog that will inspire readers to believe in themselves—even on life's toughest days.

This paperback is professionally printed on demand and fulfilled through Lulu Direct.

Each copy is printed especially for you when your order is placed, helping to reduce waste and eliminate excess inventory. Because every book is made to order, printing and shipping may take a little longer than mass-produced books, but you'll receive a brand-new, high-quality paperback printed just for you.