Saving Audie: A Pit Bull Puppy Gets a Second Chance [Hardcover]

William Muńoz (Author), Dorothy Hinshaw Patent (Author)

Book Description

Release date: May 10, 2011 | Age Range: 6 - 9 years

When Michael Vick's dog fighting ring was discovered, more than forty dogs were rescued. But their struggle was far from over. Most animal advocates believed the former fighting dogs were too damaged to save, but Audie and his kennel mates would prove them wrong when public outcry and the publicity surrounding Michael Vick's punishment won them a chance at a happy life. Teaming up once again with William Muñoz, photo-essay veteran Dorothy Hinshaw Patent gives an emotional account of one dog's heartwarming story, showing how Audie, who was only a puppy when he was rescued, was rehabilitated, adopted, and now enjoys the love he deserves.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Muñoz captures the dog's personality in frame after frame. Patent's text is straightforward, expertly providing just the right level of background and choosing kid-friendly details... Audie's inspirational story is a case study in rehabilitation, one sure to appeal to animal loving children."--Kirkus Reviews

"The fluid text is accompanied by Muñoz's beautiful photos of the dogs and people involved on their rescue....the book shows that dogs can be loved and rehabilitated no matter what they have gone through, and provides a wonderful lesson on second chances and forgiveness."--Cold Nose Magazine

"This polished photo-essay by frequent collaborators Patent and Muñoz will tug at the heartstrings of readers. Muñoz's crisp, candid photos include many endearing shots of Audie—both solo and interacting with humans and other rescued dogs. Bright backgrounds and captionlike commentary keep this uplifting and informational book lively." –Publishers Weekly

From the Author

While the events leading up to the rescue of Michael Vick's victims were terrible, the stories that followed are filled with hope, determination, and love on the part of both the dogs and the amazing people who have devoted so much time and effort on the animals' behalf.  I felt honored to meet Audie and his family and to experience his new loving and exciting world by his side.  I'm a sucker when it comes to dogs, and Audie won my heart right off the bat.  When my photographer, Bill, and I first arrived at the house, Audie barked and barked, then ran away, turned and barked again and ran away.  He just wasn't sure what to do about this strangers.  But within a half hour, he lay next to me on the couch, his head resting against my thigh as he slept, trusting me completely.  Who wouldn't fall in love?

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Age Range: 6 - 9 years
  
• Hardcover: 48 pages
• Publisher: Walker Childrens (May 10, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0802722725
• ISBN-13: 978-0802722720
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 10.9 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 13.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (19 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #435,191 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

30 of 31 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Inspiring story May 12, 2011

By J. Prather TOP 500 REVIEWERVINE™ VOICE

Format:Hardcover

I was very happy to see this book. The story of Michael Vick's dogs and their recovery, so ably chronicled in Jim Gorant's The Lost Dogs has been brought to a format easily accessible to young children. The story of Audie is a great one to illustrate the miracle that occurred when a bunch of dedicated volunteers decided that a group of dogs that had never known love or caring were worth saving. This author does an amazing job of telling this story in words meant not to traumatize young dog lovers, but to inspire and offer hope.

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and no young reader will look at the photo of a young dog cowering against a cement building or peering fearfully out of a cage without realizing the depth of the damage done to these dogs. They will also be able to find joy and smiles in the photos of Audie sitting next to his forever owner and playfully interacting with the other dogs from the Vick kennels. Much like in Gorant's book for adults, little attention is paid to Vick and his crimes, but much attention is paid to the dogs and the people who care for them.

For older readers, a timeline of the Vick case is included to offer up the basic facts and the reader is encouraged to visit the dog's blog. There is an information page for more information about pit bulls, and a suggestion for further reading section to direct readers to more information not only about pit bulls, but also about puppy training and the Canine Good Citizen program. This is an excellent choice for young dog lovers grade 2 and up. The reading level is easy, and the text is simple and direct. Recommended.

17 of 17 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Fantastic Book, even for young children! June 10, 2011

By Jessica L. Brothers

Format:Hardcover

I bought this book at a book signing event with Audie and Linda (And Tim and Donna of BADRAP) in Berkley, CA. It was amazing to actually meet one of the Vicktory dogs. I got all four of them to sign my copy!
I read the book to my 4 and 2 year old sons that night, with only a little bit of Mom-editing on the first page. They know and understand that the sweet little dog they got to meet was rescued from a horrible situation where dogs were forced to fight or die. I didn't think they were ready to hear how terrified the dogs were. We've also talked about Oogy and all of the Vicktory dogs. We have a pit bull and my kids know some of their friends' parents are afraid of her.
This book was written very clearly and gently so as to not offer more detail than most kids need. I think it can open the eyes and hearts of children (and adults) everywhere. I highly recommend it!

11 of 11 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Saving Audie August 2, 2011

By B. J. Neary

Format:Hardcover|Amazon Verified Purchase

Saving Audie is a wonderful continuation for the Vick pit bulls who survived their living hell and have found their one true family. This book is for younger children with the fantastic photographs and story, BUT everyone should read this about Audie! I had an adult friend read it and she just kept saying wow, with a smile on her face! A great nonfiction title I plan to use in my library for the students who love dogs and the life skills kids. I heard about this book at the Philadelphia ISTE conference---keep spreading the good word about these resilient dogs that just want owners who love them. Lots of great facts, visit the blog too!