Max is handling his parents' divorce, his new home and school, and a big bully named Nick the only way he knows how: by running away. In his mind, he and his beautiful dog King have thrilling adventures in the woods; they conquer aliens and slay dragons; they embarrass Nick so he never comes near Max again.

Then Max happens upon a store called Wishworks, Inc., which promises his wish will come true in real life, "guaranteed." He wishes for a real dog to fulfill all his dreams. And then a real dog named Goldie appears on his doorstep . . . but she may be a little more real than Max expects!