Middle schooler Frankie knows they are nonbinary but still feels like they “don’t make sense,” especially when doing things like picking out an outfit for the upcoming band concert. Their single mom is trying to be supportive, but doesn’t always know how. The only other person they have come out to, their former best friend Dallas, has turned against them, making snide remarks about Frankie’s gender and gossiping about them in class. Playing drums is usually Frankie’s outlet, but the upcoming concert (and outfit) is adding stress, not relieving it.
One day after school, however, Frankie rescues a golden retriever from some bullies, and is whisked away to the magical Omniversal Doghouse, where the six dogs of the Pawtheon explain (via a translating helmet) that they are secret legion of dog heroes sworn to protect the world as part of an ancient pact between dogs and humans. The Dog Knight, a human imbued with the six dog virtues of loyalty, kindness, honesty, justice, stubbornness, and smell, can walk between the worlds of humans and dogs and help protect them both. The forces of chaos are getting stronger, the Pawtheon explains, and there hasn’t been a Dog Knight in years. They think Frankie might be it.
Frankie must attempt to prove themselves via six trials, representing the dog virtues, while also navigating middle school and their dog-allergic mom. In doing so, they just might find out a little more about themself.
This is such a fun graphic novel. Frankie is an immensely personable hero and readers will root for them on their journey of self-discovery. The six dogs of the Pawtheon, each a different breed, are delightfully portrayed with vivid and distinct personalities. They are talking dogs, yes, but they are also dogs, and still love a good scritchin’. It’s a hilarious combination that dog lovers should particularly appreciate. We learn more about Frankie and Dallas’ relationship, too, and why they drifted apart—and we see them taking slow steps towards reconnection and healing. It’s a more nuanced approach than making Dallas a generic bully.
The plentiful humor here is masterfully balanced with deeper messages about self and friendship. The first in a series, this should have wide appeal.
Frankie is Black, with light skin; their mom is Black with darker skin. Dallas is White.
