It's already twilight.
If I had a trash bag, I could fill it
with pine needles to make a
sleeping bag.
If I had a fish hook...
If I knew how to find my
way by following stars...
If I had common sense...
Gabe keeps one side of me warm."
- Margarita Engle
Ann Martin's dog Sadie introduces the stories collected for this engaging book:
"Between the covers of this book you'll read about funny dogs, adventurous dogs, brave dogs, smart dogs, and dogs who perform rescues."
She's right. There are stories that will make you laugh, and a few that may make you cry. Each one is entertaining...who doesn't like stories about canine companions, their foibles and their strengths? This is a great book for classroom sharing. Teacher or student read, they will capture the attention of all children in the classroom. Some are straightforward and may even seem familiar; others are not.
There are nine of them, all penned by well-respected and talented children's authors. The themes and issues tackled are greatly varied and will encourage discussion in intermediate and middle years classrooms. The stories range from mystery to comedy, fear to comfort. The writing styles are their own, and leave readers with a love for this group of nine canine companions.
Most of the stories are illustrated by Olga and Aleksey Ivanov, while Mark Teague and Jon J. Muth illustrate their own. The illustrations capture the tenor of the story and each dog's unique personality. The cover does just what covers are supposed to do...invite the reader in for a further look. Once inside, there will be no turning back. Shoe is the ultimate door greeter, isn't he?
Anyone who has space in their heart for a dog is sure to 'get' the feelings evoked in each of the tales.
There is uncertainty and sadness, humor and great joy. They range from science fiction to historical fiction. They give us stories to savor and to share.
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