Golden Boy is about a young girl, Emma Branch, who will do anything to save her dog. Emma is a teenage genius who loves science and spends much of her time caring for the animals on her family farm. She is used to feeling like the odd one out among her family and classmates, especially since everyone around her seems obsessed with football. Emma doesn't mind spending time alone as long as she has her best friend, her golden retriever, Hudson.
Hudson was the last gift her mother gave her before she passed away. Emma promised her mother that she would always look after him, so when Hudson is involved in an accident, she is devastated. She cannot bear the thought of losing her only friend and her last connection to her mother. Determined to save him, Emma is willing to do whatever it takes, even if it means testing an experimental drug on him. However, instead of helping Hudson heal, the drug turns him human. Emma must find a way to help Hudson before it's too late.
The book is a cute and entertaining read. However, I was a bit confused about the time period and how Emma was able to access some of the chemicals needed to create the drug. For much of the story, I did not realize it was set in modern times because there was very little mention of electronics or other aspects of contemporary life. It also caught me off guard that the Branch family seemed to hold some fairly antiquated views about family roles and values.
Setting aside the implausibility of creating such a drug in a classroom lab, I still found the story enjoyable. It was fun watching Emma come out of her shell and develop stronger relationships with her family and classmates, even if she could be a little annoying at times. The book also offers positive messages about treating others fairly, allowing people to shine in their own ways, and showing grace and understanding.
Readers who love golden retrievers will especially enjoy this story. Hudson's antics provide plenty of humor and charm, making the book a fun treat for animal lovers.
Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are entirely my own and were not influenced by the publisher or author.
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