Chin and the Magic Stones - L. J. Salazar

If you've ever wondered what your dog is thinking, this may give you a glimpse into your pooch's mind...and an alternate universe. But that's neither here nor there.

Kirkland, Washington resident Chin and his lovable dog Eagle latch onto every adventure they can get in the small city. But when Chin happens upon a glowing stone, his life (and Eagle's) changes. For the better or worse is only Chin's guess, since the stone magically enables Eagle to talk. But there is so much more to it than a dog's chattering about food and...well, more food.

The pair happen upon a world of magic and mayhem, assuming the roles of spirit hunters in this energetic tale. As Chin and Eagle battle dark influences and draw ever closer to defeating the Shadow Lord, the team's tasks become wilder and wilder, extending the realms of their imaginations (which is a difficult task for a ten-year-old). Though short, this first book of the series sets up Chin and Eagle for their next few discoveries, equipped with silver- and gold-tipped arrows and the ability to walk through walls.

And, of course, a talking dog.