NOTE: This guide refers to the paperback copy of How to Steal a Dog, written by Barbara O'Connor and published by Square Fish , New York, USA, 2007.

When Georgina's father walks out on her family and they end up homeless, Georgina desperately wants to have a normal life again. Sleeping in their car is getting old, and Georgina is humiliated when her best friend learns that they were evicted from their apartment. Despite working two jobs, Mama cannot seem to save enough money to rent a new apartment. Inspired by an old missing dog poster, Georgina decides to help her family by stealing a dog, then returning it for a large cash reward.

Referring often to her "How to Steal a Dog" check list that she writes, Georgina records her notes throughout her journey to save her family. Soon, her matter-of-fact notes become full of emotion as she wrestles between what is right and what is wrong. She tries to stay on course with her original plan since times are so desperate.

A wanderer named Mookie shares his wisdom with her, and she develops a friendship the Carmella, owner of the dog she steals. These relationships make her continue to question her decision to steal the dog. In the end, she puts her lies and manipulation to rest by returning the dog and confessing her transgressions. To make for an even happier ending, Georgina, Toby, and their mother get to move into a house with a roommate.