Shermy loves going to second grade. Well, except when the substitute teacher does the lessons out of order (spelling before recess and social studies during math time?). His friend Shake, however, goes with the flow. Maybe that's why their friendship works. Whether it's writing letters to their favorite authors, making homemade toys for the animal shelter, or coming up with New Year's resolutions for each other ("Stay a reading superstar!" Shake writes), the two pals' personalities always seem to balance out. But when Shermy adopts Wally, a lovable shelter dog, he gets so busy with training that he has less time for Shake--who eventually stops asking to do stuff together. And one day, Shermy hears about moving boxes at Shake's house. Is Shake moving away? Shermy is so worried he feels like he can't breathe. Wise Grandpa Gordy tells Shermy friendship is a big responsibility--just like having a dog--and that it blossoms with TLC.