"Cracker" is a novel written by Cynthia Kadohata, published in 2007. The story revolves around a young boy named Micah, whose father is serving in the military in Iraq. Micah's father sends him a bomb-sniffing dog named Cracker to keep him company and to help him cope with his father's absence. The novel explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the impact of war on families. As Micah bonds with Cracker and trains her to be a skilled bomb-sniffing dog, he also learns valuable lessons about responsibility and resilience. "Cracker" is praised for its realistic portrayal of military life and the emotional depth of its characters. It highlights the important role that animals can play in providing comfort and support, especially in challenging circumstances.