Customer Reviews

Animals Who Have Won Our Hearts

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

From Jean Craighead George, the Newbery Medalist and renowned nature writer, comes a collection of heroic and uplifting animal stories. This author of more than eighty books shares her love and awe of our planet's creatures in this unique book. Some of the stories are familiar--like that of Balto, the courageous sled dog, the most famous of all canine heroes, or Koko, the gorilla who uses sign language, teaching us more about animal intelligence and the gentleness of her species. Other stories bring some not-so-famous animals to life, such as the the Pacing White Mustang--"fastest horse in the West"--and the Hemlock Pair, two eagles who successfully raised several broods of young even when threatened by extinction. Each story is short, but beautifully written, and conveys the message that all of our animals are special, no matter what the species, or the deed. Other animals included in the book are Punxsutawney Phil, the rodent who rules on February 2; Smokey Bear, a real bear who told us in his own way that "only you can prevent forest fires"; Scannon, a great Newfoundland who was an important scout on the Lewis and Clark Expedition; three gray whales who managed to stay alive when trapped in Arctic sea ice; Sugar, a cat who made an incredible 1500-mile journey to find her family; and Blind Tom, a blind workhorse who helped to complete the first transcontinental railroad more than 100 years ago. Each story is graced with fine writing and beautiful paintings and drawings by Christine Herman Merrill. This is a collection special because of its loyalty to the dedicated animals who inspired it. This edition of the book is out-of-print, but recently it was made into a paperback children's chapter book called INCREDIBLE ANIMAL ADVENTURES, which does not carry as much beauty and dignity as this hardcover version. Also read Ms. George's other stories featuring remarkable animals--THERE'S AN OWL IN THE SHOWER, which is also illustrated by Merrill; THE TARANTULA IN MY PURSE AND 172 OTHER WILD PETS, Ms. George's autobiographical portrayal of the many animals she has known in the past; and her classic young adult novels JULIE OF THE WOLVES and MY SIDE OF THE MOUNTAIN, which each have two sequels.

This short book is a delight to read, made even more enjoyable by the lovely illustrations. In ten mini chapters author JCG presents heart-warming true stories about various animals in America: dogs, horses, cat, gorilla, eagles, whales, a bear cub and even a groundhog. She subtly points out that humans have been given Dominion over the animals of the earth, but not Domination. She reminds us that we need animals in our journey through life, just as much as they need us. We must prove a responsible civilization by striving to protect endangered species, help wild creatures in peril, and to appreciate all that our pets and patiently laboring four-footed friends do for us. Charming and enlightening for kids of all ages.