Andrew Stark

Liam is starting at a new school, and he is worried about making new friends. When a classmate asks about Liam’s cleft lip, Liam is afraid the boy is making fun of him. But in class that afternoon, Liam discovers that what makes him different also makes him special.

Liam and his mother find an injured pigeon, but Liam isn’t sure what to do. Aren’t pigeons kind of pests? His mother suggests they take the bird to a nature center, and Liam begins to realize that every animal, no matter what kind, deserves care, respect, and a place in our world.

When Liam hears his parents having an argument, he escapes into an imaginary world with animal friends he has drawn.

Liam and his mom want to adopt a dog from the shelter. While there are many well-behaved pups to choose from, Liam notices one that’s kept away from the others—with a sign that reads "behavior issues." But Liam knows there is no such thing as a bad dog.