Jared’s friend Ian invites him and his dog, Shayna, to a festival honoring St. Francis, during which people from the neighborhood are invited to bring their animals for a blessing from the priest. Jared wants to go, but his mom is uncomfortable with him going to a Catholic festival because they are Jewish.

This short, simple chapter book tells about the questions Jared has and how he goes about trying to get them answered over the course of a few days. At the end, Jared has to make the decision himself – and you may be surprised what he chooses.

If you are interested in why people have certain beliefs, or if you’d like to learn a little bit more about Judaism through one kid’s story, choose this quick read. ( )

St. Catherine’s Church is holding a blessing of the animals and a parade. All of Jared’s friends are going and he wants to bring his labrador Shayna to be blessed. But he’s Jewish and his mother doesn’t agree that Shayna should go. Jared and his mother both agree to each solicit four opinions from various people, including family and rabbis to help Jared decide whether to bring Shayna to the blessing. St. Francis of Asissi

Jared has to decide whether to take his dog to a blessing of the animals on St. Francis' day. His mother has asked him to get four opinions before first. The problem is that Jared is Jewish. The four people he consults teach him and us. His decision (see my comments) is a compromise that works for liberal Jews.