From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6-Written with affection and conviction, these anecdotes chronicle the lives of eight unwanted strays who were dumped at animal shelters, many at the Humane Society of Seattle/King County in Washington State. After their adoptions, these dogs went on to accomplish great things and changed the lives of their loving owners. Each story begins with a black-and-white photo of the canine and proud human companion, and closes with a short section on a topic of related interest. The writing is clear and straightforward, letting the drama and pathos of the dogs' triumphs, and the owners' dedication, carry the stories. It is hard to remain unmoved by the tale of Kirby, a small terrier mix, who was left for six days in an apartment when his elderly owner died in the hospital. Hostile and unapproachable, he was scheduled to be put to sleep until he was asked to go for a walk. Recognizing the word, he came out of his shell and became once again the loving dog he had always been. Joey became a service dog for his owner, who had multiple sclerosis, and learned to open doors, pick up items, and eventually served as an ambassador for a nonprofit organization that promotes the human-health benefits of keeping pets. These short stories should appeal to reluctant readers because of their length and irresistible subject matter, they will be popular with animal lovers, and they may even inspire families to adopt a shelter dog.
Jennifer Ralston, Harford County Public Library, Belcamp, MD Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Animal lovers will enjoy these eight short stories about shelter dogs going on to do great things. Among the dogs featured are Tracker, who was adopted by an animal trainer and has starred in TV commercials and movies; Ivan, who was trained by a hearing-impaired woman and ended up saving the lives of both the woman and her daughter when the fire alarm sounded; and amazing Bridgett, who can predict an epileptic seizure up to 20 minutes before it actually happens. A black-and-white photo of the dog and its owner begins each story, and a short section on a related topic (such as fire prevention) ends the segment. Kids will find the heroics appealing, but the book's greatest achievement may be its potential for increasing adoptions from shelters.
Lauren Peterson
