Pia's Pet Club: Puppy Problem

The first in a new series from Serena Patel, Pia’s Pet Club: Puppy Problem is a lively and heartfelt story for animal-lovers and young readers who sometimes feel left out or ignored. Pia is the youngest in her family and it often feels like no one listens to her. Her older sister, Niki, is constantly praised for her artwork (which Pia is not impressed by), and her parents are always too busy (Dad is working from home in his flat; Mum is endlessly redecorating the house) to notice what Pia wants. What Pia wants, more than anything in the world, is a pet. Sadly, both of her parents are reluctant to consider even getting a hamster, and a dog is certainly out of the question.

When Pia gets the chance to help a boy from school (James) train his brand-new rescue puppy (Luna) she jumps at it. It’s not the same as having her own dog, but it’s close — and perhaps, if she can prove she is responsible enough, her parents might change their minds. With a visit from James’ very traditional grandma on the horizon, there’s a deadline to get Luna ready, and Pia is determined to show everyone what she is capable of.

Naturally, things don’t go quite according to plan. In fact, they go very messily off track, with a series of comic catastrophes that will have readers giggling with second-hand embarrassment. Patel’s trademark warmth and humour shine through as Pia navigates poo disasters, barking blunders, and chaotic training sessions with more enthusiasm than expertise.

At its core, this is a story about family, empathy, and the importance of recognising that everyone’s needs matter — even (or especially) when those needs are different from your own. Pia’s sense of injustice as the youngest sibling will strike a chord with many children, and her friendship with James gently demonstrates the rewards of helping others, even when it is not easy.

Pia’s Pet Club is a promising start to a new series with a big heart. Young readers will root for Pia as she tries — and fails, and tries again — to prove herself, and they will be left wondering what pet-based adventures might be in store next.