Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle [Hardcover]

Brian Dennis (Author), Mary Nethery (Author), Kirby Larson (Author)

Book Description

Grade Level: P and up

Nubs, an Iraqi dog of war, never had a home or a person of his own. He was the leader of a pack of wild dogs living off the land and barely surviving. But Nubs's life changed when he met Marine Major Brian Dennis. The two formed a fast friendship, made stronger by Dennis's willingness to share his meals, offer a warm place to sleep, and give Nubs the kind of care and attention he had never received before. Nubs became part of Dennis's human "pack" until duty required the Marines to relocate a full 70 miles away--without him. Nubs had no way of knowing that Marines were not allowed to have pets.

So began an incredible journey that would take Nubs through a freezing desert, filled with danger tofind his friend and would lead Dennis on a mission that would touch the hearts of people all over the world.

Nubs and Dennis will remind readers that friendship has the power to cross deserts, continents, and even species.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 2–5—A true story of a feral dog from Iraq that found a home in the United States. In October 2007, Border Transition Team 3/5/2 arrived at the border of Iraq and Syria. The team members were greeted by a pack of wild dogs, whose leader became known as "Nubs" because of his docked ears. He developed a bond with Dennis, and as the troops would come and go over the course of several weeks, they were always greeted by the dogs. Nubs exhibited signs of malnutrition and abuse yet he continued to seek food and companionship from the Marines, often trying to follow them when they'd leave. In December 2007, when they relocated to the Jordanian border, 70 miles away, he embarked on a treacherous journey across the desert and, two days later, walked into the camp. Because Marine regulations prohibit the keeping of pets in a war zone, Major Dennis and his men collected donations and arranged to send Nubs to the United States. He was eventually reunited with the dog in 2008. The narrative, which sometimes lacks clarity, includes a substantial amount of original documentation—photos taken by members of the 3/5/2, emails from Dennis to his friends in San Diego, and copies of the State Department "passport" allowing Nubs to travel. This is a feel-good entry in the current trend of inspirational true animal stories.—Kara Schaff Dean, Walpole Public Library, MA
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About the Author

Brian Dennis is the major in the Marines. He and Nubs live in San Diego.

Kirby Larson is the acclaimed author of the 2007 Newbery Honor book, Hattie Big Sky. Her most recent title is Two Bobbies: A True Story of Hurricane Katrina, Friendship and Survival, co-written with Mary Nethery. Kirby lives in Kenmore, Washington.

Mary Nethery is the author of many picture books, including Hannah and Jack, Mary Veronica's Egg, and Orange Cat Goes to Market. Mary lives in Eureka, California.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 48 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers (November 1, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 031605318X
• ISBN-13: 978-0316053181
• Product Dimensions: 11.5 x 0.5 x 9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (122 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #37,492 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #8 in Books > Children's Books > Travel & Cultures > Explore the World > Middle East

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

82 of 82 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful, heartwarming story. 7 year old loved it!, October 17, 2009

By 

Brian Franklin (Davie, Florida USA) - See all my reviews
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Amazon Verified Purchase

This review is from: Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle (Hardcover)

This is a wonderful story of the mutual devotion and the warm bond found between people and their pets... with a twist. Brian Dennis is a great, colorful writer, and there are little touches within the book - from his email dispatches to maps and photography, that make this true story hit home. My 7 year old son, as soon as we finished, said it best: "Dad, that was a great story!"

Major Dennis, and all those that helped make this story a happy one, deserve great praise. This book should be a staple in every home - and I'd particularly recommend it to those parents who want to teach their kids to respect animals. It also highlights the power of small, compassionate groups of people who are determined to save a life - furry or otherwise.

37 of 37 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Meeting Your Soul Mate, November 2, 2009

By 

B. Davis "crazy about books" (Beautiful Northwest USA) - See all my reviews
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This review is from: Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle (Hardcover)

What a wonderful story of love, loyality, and a dog that would not give up. This is a tale of the beauty of miracles in the mist of the ugliness of war. Nubs will show that love between a man and his dog can overcome anything. Children will love this book and remember it as a favorite. It teaches them that animals have personalities, should be valued and respected, and are very special. Highly recommended.

34 of 34 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful Story, November 4, 2009

By 

animal lover (L.I. New York) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle (Hardcover)

Last night, my eight year old son and I had the pleasure of meeting both Major Dennis and Nubs and to hear their wonderful story. As an avid animal lover, it was truly inspiring to hear the lengths that the Major went to in order to bring Nubs home. The story of what that poor dog and countless more like him had to endure in war torn Iraq is heartbreaking; however when you hear Dennis's story and the bond that the two have forged, it will bring a smile to your face and tears to your eyes.

The book is lovely, full of photos, the story uplifting. Seeing Nubs with the Major, I truly believe that he understands how much he is loved and the lengths the Major went to to bring him home. A wonderful story for children and adults alike, it shows the human side of the men and women who serve; the need for interaction, love and kindness. Job well done Major; thank you!