This is a graphic novel which is quirky, fantasy, humorous, and a touch manga, delivers information to the reader which engages them beyond just the plot of the story. The setting is the city of Chicago and the main characters are really quite innocent, which is refreshingly different than many of of past and current graphic novels.  The boy, Raf, is hoping to create an app which deciphers his dog’s language so they can communicate.  Space aliens, high-stakes dog show, scientists using animals as specimens,  visit to the animal shelter each have something to communicate to the reader.    I really liked the contemporary plot, and the illustrations were free from sexualizing the female characters.  Appropriate for elementary school aged readers.