Sophia Starr and a Dog to Love by Sarah Lipman

September 29, 2025

Reading Age 7-11

Sophia Starr has one big wish: her very own pet dog.

When her parents finally agree to let her care for other people’s dogs to prove she’s ready, Sophia is thrilled. This is her chance! With every walk, bath, and wagging tail, she’s one step closer to her dream.

But things don’t go exactly to plan.

Friendship tensions bubble up. School is stressful. Ballet rehearsals for an upcoming exam are exhausting. And who is the mysterious figure who seems to be watching her? As the challenges pile up, Sophia begins to wonder if she’s bitten off more than she can chew.

Filled with humour, heart, and a touch of mystery, Sophia Starr and a Dog to Love is a charming chapter book about growing up, staying strong, and learning that love, like dog ownership, comes with responsibility.

Perfect for young readers aged 7-11 who love dogs, friendship stories, and brave girls chasing big dreams.

A tail-wagging story for anyone who’s ever wanted a dog of their own.

REVIEW

A peek into life of a young dog owner

A wonderful children’s book centered around Sophia who cares for other people’s dogs to show her parents that she will be a responsible dog owner. The story delves into the responsibilities, the fun, and the perseverance required. There’s also a mysterious older lady that has her worried, besides an upcoming exam and school responsibilities. Then there’s friendship tensions. Very well written and provides a good overview of pet ownership. Good for independent readers and as a family read.

Reviewed by Comfy Chair Books/Lisa Reigel (December 2, 2025)

Gifted paperback copy via LPR Agency

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sarah Lipman lives in London with her husband, Paul, two daughters, Jasmine and Bella, and pet tortoise, Lassie. She has had a keen love for dogs ever since growing up in Florida and persuading her mom to let her look after her tennis coach’s half greyhound/half pit bull dog. Sarah has hosted an array of dogs for their ‘holidays’ over the past few years. These experiences and her own joyful memories of stories told to her as a child spawned the idea for her first book, ‘Sophia Starr and a Dog to Love’. Sarah has always loved storytelling and often makes up stories for her children. She now offers young readers a delightful journey through her world of imagination.