Danny faces a terrible dilemma: to put down his beloved dog Banjo when Mr. Brodie accuses it of getting into his sheep with other wild dogs. Danny lies to save Banjo's life but as his cover-up mounts, it gets harder to hide the truth. City readers will be transported to rural Oregon where Danny and his dad participate in rodeos and livestock graze on ranches. Danny's ethical dilemma is portrayed genuinely and realistically, and although the resolution is bittersweet (animal lovers will clutch at their hearts), the ending is as close to satisfyingly happy as possible. ( )