What This Book Is About
Annie Shearer lives in the tiny Australian town of Upson Downs, where the biggest event of the year is the Agatha Pantha sheepdog trials. Life is predictable, and Annie likes it that way—until a scruffy, undersized stray dog appears in her backyard one morning. She names him Runt, and from the moment their eyes meet, something clicks.
Annie decides to enter Runt in the prestigious sheepdog competition—a decision that everyone around her considers ridiculous. Runt isn't a border collie or a kelpie; he's a mutt of uncertain origin who seems more interested in chasing his tail than herding sheep. Annie herself has never trained a dog in her life. But Annie has the kind of quiet, fierce determination that doesn't care about odds, and Runt has a heart far bigger than his small body.
Craig Silvey—one of Australia's most beloved authors—writes with warmth, wit, and a deep understanding of what it feels like to be underestimated. This is a story about the bond between a girl and her dog, but it's also about community, belonging, and the stubborn courage it takes to prove everyone wrong.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why We Recommend This Book
For A2-B1 readers in international schools, Runt is a standout choice for three reasons.
First, Craig Silvey is one of Australia's most celebrated authors—his prose is accessible yet beautifully crafted, with short chapters and vivid descriptions that model excellent English writing. For students working on their own creative writing, this book is a masterclass in voice and pacing that they'll absorb naturally as they read.
Second, the Australian English vocabulary and rural outback setting expose students to a variety of English they rarely encounter in textbooks. Words like "paddock," "reckons," and "chuffed" appear alongside universal storytelling, giving students a richer, more global understanding of the English language—exactly the kind of cultural literacy that international schools value.
Third, the underdog theme resonates powerfully with students who are themselves navigating new environments. Annie is underestimated by her community; Runt is dismissed because of his size and breed. Together they prove that heart matters more than pedigree—a message that speaks directly to students adapting to new schools, new countries, and new expectations.
Reading Level Guide
Too challenging at A1. Try picture books or early graded readers to build vocabulary first.
Ideal level. Strong A2 readers can stretch into it; early B1 readers will find it comfortable and confidence-building.
A quick, enjoyable read at B2. Move on to Howl’s Moving Castle or Prisoners of Geography for more complexity.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.