"Whip-smart Ariel does't fit in. Only in the winds of the Blue Ridge Mountains and spring storms that mirror the turmoil in her heart does she really feel at home. Her brother understands her, but he's in Afghanistan. Her father hasn't been the same since George was deployed. Her mother focuses on Ariel's gorgeous sister. When Gloria is selected to be an Apple Blossom Parade princess, Ariel feels even more the outsider and takes to the hills. There, during a raging storm, Ariel finds a lost dog who leads her to the safety of a cabin and Sergeant Josie, a former Army K-9 handler. Together--with music, dog-dancing, and a storm-child-crazy plan--the three outcasts find themselves." --Taken from cover.

Ages 10 and up.