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Thursday, July 5, 2018

Rescue and Jessica: A Life-Changing Friendship. By Jessica Kensky and Patrick Downes, and illustrated by Scott Magoon. Candlewick Press, Penguin Random House, 2018. $22.99 ages 6 and up

"One day, a visitor came to see Jessica and she brought her service dog, Currahee. Jessica say how a smart dog like Currahee could help her. That very day, she started filling out the application to ask for a dog of her own. After a while, Jessica got some very exciting news."

Two survivors of the Boston Marathon bombing have shared their story in this picture book that follows Jessica's recovery and Rescue's training in the days before their paths converge. While Rescue is working hard to learn to become a service dog, Jessica is learning to adjust to a new existence, following the amputation of  part of her left leg.

Once paired, the two must adapt to a life together. They work hard. Rescue helps with those things that Jessica cannot do for herself. Jessica ensures that Rescue gets the rest and exercise that all dogs need. When Jessica learns that she will lose part of her right leg, it is Rescue who helps her recover. He is a willing and loving companion.

"Rescue and Jessica had to start all over again.

Slowly, but surely, they learned how to do all
the things they needed to do.

Together."

The placement of service dogs is life-changing. This story makes that evident. This husband and wife team do have a service dog named Rescue. In their book, they do not relate their own experience. Rather, they use a fictional character with a similar injury to their own. While they share the joys and trials of recovery, they make no mention of how the child hurt her legs. Realistic and gracious, it is a story that will appeal to many and is an inspiration to those who know their true story.

Scott Magoon uses realistic digital artwork to exhibit for readers a look at the work done by both the child and the dog prior to their match, and of all they do to make it work. Their special bond and love for each other are evident in illustrations that show them working together. 

https://youtu.be/ju1onrlkK4w

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