In Eliza Jane Finds Her Dog Squad, authors Eliza Kelley and Debra Whiting Alexander continue the journey of a spirited and gifted young heroine as she navigates school, friendship, and life with Tourette’s syndrome.
Readers first meet Eliza Jane as a five-and-a-half-year-old determined to marry her enchanted Chihuahua, Archie, only to be heartbroken when her mother explains that people cannot marry animals. Fortunately, Archie is no ordinary dog. He has mastered the English language and become a bona fide talking dog. He grows into Eliza Jane’s closest confidant and steadfast companion. In fourth grade, Eliza Jane wishes she could simply stay put forever. Each new school year brings a long list of changes: a new building, a new classroom, a new teacher, new classmates, and a new routine. For a child diagnosed with Tourette’s, these transitions often mean an increase in tics, making the first day of school especially overwhelming.
Eliza Jane is a memorable protagonist. She is clever, amusing, delightfully quirky, and proudly an Oregon cowgirl with plenty of horse sense. While she sometimes longs to forget she has Tourette’s, the story honestly portrays how challenging medical conditions can be for children trying to fit in. Archie attends school as her devoted service dog and expert “tic-detector,” offering both practical support and heartfelt encouragement. With the steady presence of true friends and the formation of an irresistible dog squad, Eliza Jane begins to see her differences not as limitations, but as strengths. Her selection as a Youth Advocate for Tourette's syndrome is a turning point in her development. She steps into leadership with courage and purpose, embodying the idea that heroines arise when bravery is needed most.
The book emphasizes resilience, advocacy, empathy, and the power of perspective. The most important message, “If you change the way you think about things, it can make everything better,” stayed with me long after the final page. Kelley and Alexander balance humor and heart through sensitivity and compassion. Tourette’s syndrome is presented in an accessible way that young readers can understand. The pacing is easy and takes the reader smoothly through Eliza Jane's moments of anxiety, friendship-building, and self-discovery, allowing them to appreciate Eliza Jane’s emotional growth fully.
The vibrant illustrations by Patricia Culwell and Jazlin Sobel are outstanding. Their illustrations bring the story to life with their inspiration and extraordinary talent. The artwork captures Eliza Jane’s and Archie’s personalities. The narrative was accessible to middle-grade readers.
Quill says: The Eliza Jane Series is a blend of realism, courage, friendship, and embracing what makes each of us unique.
For more information about Eliza Jane Finds Her Dog Squad, please visit the author’s website at debrawhitingalexander.com
