Amazon.com

Widely respected for his stunningly astute observations of dogs (more specifically, of the majestic Weimaraner), William Wegman once again dazzles with Puppies. Here Wegman chronicles three generations of Weimaraners with his insightful commentary and exceptional photography. Wegman's love for his dogs is expressed in every photograph and in every line of his awe-filled text. Speaking about his second Weimaraner, Fay, the author says, "She looked like she had wandered out of a Rousseau painting. Those luminous yellow eyes."

Fay's radiance inspired Wegman to greater creative depths: he began dressing her up to appear almost human, a common theme in his photographs. Fay starred in many Wegman titles, including ABC and Cinderella. It is Fay's children, and later her grandchildren, who take the center stage in William Wegman's Puppies. Wegman's photographs are, as always, astonishing, capturing the beauty and individualism of each puppy. He labels his photographs with humorous bylines: a puppy sitting in a planter is labeled "Pup Pot." The exceptional physique of the Weimaraner becomes more pronounced as the puppies grow; at two weeks, the puppies are almost extraterrestrial in appearance, with large ears and wrinkled skins. But they are still exquisite, and the photos capture every expression and posture. Wegman has the utmost respect for his dogs, and his subjects are in turn fully content and relaxed in the presence of their photographer. Wegman has the ability to draw us exceptionally close to his dogs, and this wonderful collection captures the true spirit and beauty of the Weimaraner. ... Read more

Reviews (12)

William Wegman's Wonderful Weimeraners
William Wegman is one of America's most important photographers,and Puppies is a wonderful,dear,sweet,happy and tragic book,all at the same time. Wegman's reputation may be in photography,but this beautiful book of photos proves that he is a great storyteller as well. Not only is it a picture book,it is a touching storybook of the lives of his beloved dogs. Sometimes that love gives me the creeps,but of course,I have never lived with dogs. Cats,on the other hand... A great book,get it!

Very cute book, great for puppie lovers
I picked up this book the other day, and It is by far the cutest out of all the Wegman books. You always see the full grown dogs in his prints, but this book puts together the puppies. There is a touching/nice story to follow from page to page, that gives meaning on to why he chose dogs to photograph, and how much they mean to him. The photo's are very cute, and it is a simple book, nice for children. I love Wegman's work, and this one is just plain cute, a change from his fashion prints with all the costumes, this book just takes a look at the puppies, plain and simple. ^^
The only thing I wish, is that there was a bigger showcase of pictures.

A love story in pictures and words. Wonderful bedside book.
There isn't much to say about this loving photo essay except that the photos are wonderful and peaceful, and the prose engaging. I like to have the Wegman books near my bed for when I am wound up and unable to sleep. They are very calming and sweet. I always appreciate the deep respect and love Wegman displays toward his dogs, in both his prose and photographic work.

Cute stories, great pictures!
Wegman fans will truly enjoy this light reading, picture book. The puppies are adorable. Actually, I'm not even that much of a fan of his work but this book appeals.

Wegman Delights with His Puppies yet again...
One of the greatest pop culture references of the late 1900's has to be William Wegman's puppies. These images resound with character and delighted me (and I'm a cat lover!). ... Read more

Reviews (10)

SO cute!
We bought this book with "That's Not My Tractor" by the same author to entertain our two-year-old on a trip. We have all enjoyed the darling illustrations and fun textures. It is one of those books that we read most frequently and that his friends pull out during play time. We plan on collecting more of this series for sure!

Best Baby Books!
We bought "that's not my dinosaur" in french while in europe last spring. Our son was only5 months old and immidiately squealed with delight and still does. It is his all time favourite book. I got online now to order another>

Thomas LOVES this book
My son Thomas (now 21 months) took to this book at 12 months and it is still is favorite. Very durable. He used to pet, and now he loves to show me the mouse on each page. I'm buying other Usborne books for an upcoming plane ride! He also has one in Spanish that he likes as much.

Great touch and feel book!
My niece loved this book, so we bought it for our daughter who we expect to arrive in just a few weeks! I think I like it even more because our little dog looks just like the one at the end! So I'm biased - I still think it's the best! :-)

Touchy Feely's Number One with Our Little Guy
All the Touchy-Feely Books have wonderful textures (soft, rough, shiny and more) that draw babies and toddlers into the story. They take delight in touching the textures, looking at the vibrant pictures and listening to your voice as you read the story.

These books are of exceptional quality - take it from the parents of young Malcolm. Malcolm chews on these board books, sucks on them and even turns his own pages. His books look like new! These are durable board books with thick and resilient pages. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

"Draw 50 Dogs" of the terrific Draw 50 series
I must admit that for me it takes a bit of work to draw realistic and 3 dimensional pictures. But using the 'Draw 50' books are so very, very easy to use! Lee J. Ames's drawing method is simple with the step-by-step instructions which are easy to follow. For kids 9 and older, "Draw 50 Dogs" by Lee J. Ames is great for drawing in your scrapbook, onto your notebooks, on cards, etc.

As the title says, this book includes instructions to draw 50 dogs; all of the 50 are different breeds and types. For me I love the portraits though I also love to draw dogs running or posing. My favorite pictures to draw are most probably the 'Irish Wolfhound', 'Cairn Terrier', 'German Shepherd Dog', 'Cocker Spaniel', and 'English Setter'. The book has another nice touch which is at the bottom of each drawing, there is some information on that dog including a brief history of the breed, average weight and height of the dog, and coat and color of the dog. Extremely helpful especially if you are thinking of coloring your drawing afterwards or would like to know how big to draw the dog when putting it in a background. My only complaint that there isn't a picture of a papillon to draw which I would like to (the reason? I have a papillon for a pet!).

Of course all of the "Draw 50" series are great, be sure to check them all out! The books I want are "Draw 50 Athletes", "Draw 50 Cats", "Draw 50 Cars, Trucks, and Motorcycles", and "Draw 50 Famous Faces".

Great book
I agree with the other reviews,this is a great book in the series. If you have an interest in drawing or know someone who does,you'll find these books to be very useful. My daughter had brought some home from the library & asked for me to buy them.They go step by step with you,in no time you'll have a wonderful picture!

Draw 50 dogs
This wonderful step-by-step drawing book has great illustrations like the Yorkshire terrier(My favourite). Lee J. Ames, author, is very kind as I had e-mailed him many times. Hope you like this book too...

It made drawing dogs easy as 123!!!
It has great step by step drawings of many different breeds. I would recomend it to anyone who can and can't draw dogs. ... Read more

Book Description

Gary Paulsen has owned dozens of unforgettable and amazing dogs. In each chapter he tells the story of one special dog, among them Snowball, the puppy he owned as a boy in the Philippines; Ike, his mysterious hunting companion; Dirk, the grim protector; ... Read more

Reviews (27)

Mary: A "Dog Lover" Plus
This book is about a man named Gary Paulsen and all of the dogs he has owned that have had an effect on his life. Each chapter is about a different dog, and what it did to make the dog special to Gary.
Because I am a "dog lover" I thought this book was great. It is written very well and I think it was worth reading. I like how it is about all different kinds of dogs, each dog has different personality and a different story. It's pretty exciting to read because you're always wondering what the next dog is going to do, whether it is saving someone's life or just making someone smile. Until you read My Life In Dog Years you probably won't realise the impact our pets or animals can have on our lives. There is an amazing relationship that we have with our pets and this book captures that.
I recommend My Life In Dog Years to only people who truly love dogs. If you are not a "dog person" then I highly doubt you would enjoy this book. My Life In Dogs Years is written at a 6th grade level, but it is read by all different ages. It is a great book and if you love dogs then I guarantee you will love this book.

Dog lovers, Paulsen fans, YA lovers, you've GOT to read it!
Gary Paulsen never lets me down. Written at about a 6th grade level, the text is still eloquent, wonderful writing with stories I enjoyed even as an adult reader. Paulsen chronicles his amazing life through the lens of a dog lover, relating his own experiences with several of his dog friends over the years. As an avid Paulsen fan and a "dog person" myself, I could not put the book down, and found myself going from tears to nodding my head in recognition to laughing out loud. I've got a long list of fellow "dog people" with whom I can't wait to share this treasure!

Dogs a Million
I chose this book, bcause it really looked interesting. This book is about the author, Gary Paulsen, and some of his dogs he has owned. My favorite dog was Josh, because he was the smartest and he always watched over his owner and friends. My favorite part was when another dog of his, Quincy, had jumped out of Paulsen's car into Dairy Queen. Over all, this book was too good to put down.

A heartwarming -- not maudlin -- read
What a wonderful book, simply written in E.B. White style, with each chapter a jewel. I cried at the end of each installment! I purchased three copies as gifts for others. A must read, and not just for children, for doglovers of all ages.

Wonderful
Very touching and interesting account of several dogs that touched the author's life in some way. Great for younger readers, but will entertain all ages. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

no one understands dogs like Steven Huneck
This book is amazing. I recently lost my beloved companion of 9 years, and when I saw this book I had to buy it. I am proud to say I'm originally from Vermont and have been a fan of Steven Huneck for years. He has outdone himself with "The Dog Chapel." The illustrations and simple phrases reflect the love between a dog and his person. I miss my friend, but Huneck's book has helped me to grieve and heal.

The Dog Chapel
Mr. Hunek conveys the power of the animal/human bond through beautiful photos of the chapel and whimsical woodcuts that describe the characteristics of our canine companions. The book tells how this unique chapel came to be built following the authors critical illness. As the sign outside the chapel says, "All breeds and all creeds welcome. No dogma allowed". This book would make a cherished gift for all dog lovers regardless of their religious or spiritual beliefs. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

the dog who wouldn't be
i am reading this book with my dad and having a fun time.mutt,comes to this family for only a penny but brings a millon laughs.he did not think he was a dog so he did not ACT like a dog.when he didn't want to do something he pretented not to hear it.he would put on an expression that said,''i'm sorry,were you speaking to MOI? my two favorite parts are when the dad turns mutt blue and when the dad shot his gun and fell into the dich.you will have to read the book to find out the rest.

Good, but with serious reservations
I must speak a dissenting voice to all the glowing reviews of this book. Mowat is, no doubt, an excellent naturalist, and many of the adventures described in the book are very entertaining. However, I am very disturbed that, although the author is ready to defend HIS pets with his shotgun against other animals, he pretty much gave his own animals not just free rein but also encouragement to kill the pets of others. Mutt the dog is deliberately set on a woman's cats, and the "secret cemetery" of neighborhood cats filled by his pet owl is described with almost pride.

Also disturbing to me is the author's attitude toward women. Any complaining woman is described as "spinsterish." The "Cat Lady" whose cats the author set his dog on to attack and kill was described as harboring "yearning hope" for a male intruder to come and presumably do things to her that I don't want to refer to in a review that children may read -- the implication is pretty strong, with a reference also to the Sabine women.

I may get flamed for this review, but I feel that these are very poor attitudes to be subtly or unsubtly conveying to children. I find it very unfortunate because I endorse the author's work as a naturalist.

Beloved dog, lost times
This is a tale that couldn't happen today. Dogs don't have the lifestyle they did in the 1920's and 1930's in remote Canada, and sadly, boys don't either.

Mutt is a fascinating mutt with a mind of his own; halfway through the book I realised he must be part Siberian Husky with his deafness, his love of roaming and chasing and need to attend to his own desires.

Farley's mother demonstrated an act of faith- as well as the desire to save [money amount]- when she purchased Mutt as a puppy from a starving duck seller. Farley's dad wanted a hunting dog; Farley's mom didn't want to spend a lot of money on a dog during the Dust Bowl years, living in Saskatoon.

Dogs roamed free, boys roamed free. Boys weren't sent off to summer camp to keep busy- there was enough to do with their own imaginations, their friends and their animal companions. Attitudes towards cats were cavalier; some parts are very hard to read if you appreciate cats. Thankfully that attitude has changed over time.

The stories of the father's boating attempts are hilarious. I don't like boats, but am inspired to read "the boat that wouldn't float" by the same author. I live in the western US and have a vague understanding of how difficult it would be to navigate some of these rivers so I appreciated the delusional voyage of The Coot.

Farley paints his parents as people who had their own interests and needs, but also understood the needs of their son and his dog. They understood that living in a city wouldn't work for them, after several years living in the sparse western provinces. Farley's imagination was clearly nurtured and allowed him to become the prolific writer he became. Even the car (Eardlie, a Model A) has a character and idiosycrasies that add to the story.

My dog, too, is geriatric so I read the final chapter sadly. Mutt's demise will give fuel to the arguments of people who believe completely in leash laws.

Yes, this is a fantastic story of a dog, but it is also a wonderful story of life in a more free time, for children. Farley skips over most of the drawbacks of that time and paints a wonderful portrait of childhood.

The Dog Who Wouldn't Be
The Dog Who Wouldn't Be
By: Farley Mowat
Reviewed by: Catherine Li

This book describes the life of a boy (Farley) with a dog named Mutt. Mutt was adopted by the author's mother when he was a puppy and was found by a boy who was selling baby ducks. Mutt was a very unique dog because he had excellent hunting skills. He could dive really deep to catch ducks under the water. Whenever the author's Dad fired his gun to hunt birds, Mutt could always retrieve a bird back even if the author's Dad missed his shot. Besides his hunting skills, he had ability to walk on fences, ladders, and trees - just like a cat! The first time he tried to walk on a fence he fell, but he kept trying until he was able to master his balancing skills on a narrow fence. Mutt was a very determined dog.
I really enjoyed reading this book because the writing describes a lot of details. The writing is very descriptive, and I could picture all the events in my mind. I love the huge vocabularies the author uses to make the sentences complex. "A swirl of muddy water marked his passing, and in the center of the swirl thee was a whitish blob that twisted back and forth lethargically." The author writes lengthy and quite difficult sentences. I remember when I tried reading this book a year ago, there was at least five to ten words I did not understand.
The author described the hunting skills and tricks Mutt could do in very expressive writing. Each chapter was extremely long, however I never got bored and kept reading. The events the author chose very amusing and thrilling. For instance, "The last jump took him well into deep water, and he began churning forward like an old-fashioned stern-wheeler." This book is so descriptive that it make the readers feel like they were really living in the Canadian plains.
I found this book very fascinating, especially when Mutt learns how to climb ladders, trees, and fences. My favorite section of this book is when Mutt climbed on top of a tree and there was a group of firefighters surrounding the tree. This section of the book is amusing because everyone thought it was a huge monster in the tree. Two people were holding guns and they called the firefighters to this event. It is a book worth reading. It has humorous stories and touching events. I really enjoyed reading this book.

Wonderful Children's Book
I read this book in 4th grade as a follow-up to Owls in the Family - even if you read it just to find out what happens, it's worth it. But the tales of Mowat and his companion are hilarious and even inspire some thought provoking discussions in a classroom setting. A good read for the 10-and-under crowd. ... Read more

Book Description

Watch the magical world of dogs come alive in The Complete Dog Book For Kids

Also Includes:

• Tips for finding the right dog for you
• Health care and training basics
• Information about the world of purebred dogs, from Junior Showmanship competitions to the informal Canine Good Citizen program

Reviews (2)

Wonderful book
This is a great book that I use for 4-H quiz bowl. It has complete breed descriptions for every breed in the AKC. It gives you the breed standard, a size comparison, and unique facts for EVERY breed. This book also has vital information for first aid, and health care. Great book for kids 8 and up.

GREAT!!!
I loved this book, and recommend it to any dog-lover (whether your a child or not!!!) ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A Must Have Iditarod Book
Debbie Miller's masterful retelling of the Serum Run, which saved the children of Nome, Alaska from a deadly diphtheria epidemic in 1925, goes well beyond the facts of this heroic team effort. The Great Serum Run: Blazing the Iditarod Trail includes well-researched factual information, reference tables, maps, and photographs. Miller's narrative comes alive as she skillfully interweaves many little known fascinating details of how the mushers and their dog sled teams endured their individual treks from Nenana to Nome in such deadly weather conditions. The story behind this famous dog sled team relay was inspiration for the world famous "Last Great Race," the Iditarod. Jon Van Zyle, the official Iditarod artist, complements Miller's text with vivid, captivating illustrations. Readers of this book will gain a sense of the unbelievable accomplishment of these dog sled teams. People of all ages will treasure this book. The Great Serum Run: Blazing the Iditarod Trail should be included as a first resource for teachers interested in providing thought provoking discussions about the Iditarod, teamwork, and man's interaction and dependence on animals.

About the Reviewer: Ann Morgan has taught lessons about the Iditarod in grades 2- 6 for the last 18 years, and is currently teaching at Chatham Middle School, Chatham, Massachusetts. In 2000, she was in Alaska at the Iditarod and acquired first hand knowledge of the race by following the mushers and dog sled teams with her own bush pilot from Anchorage to Nome.

A book worth reading for children & adults
Debbie Miller did a great deal of research before writing this book, so though it is written for children, it is a great account for all to read. I would highly recommend it to readers of all ages who are interested in dog teams and their important role in Alaska. This is the best and most acurate telling of the story of the serum run to Nome in 1925 which I have ever seen. It is a children's book in that it explains what happened from the viewpoint of children. Beyond the story, there are facts presented in the back of the book. Jon Van Zyle is a popular artist, but I did not feel that his oil paintings for this book were all that great. ... Read more

Book Description

A children’s version of the best-selling What Dogs Teach Us, What Puppies Teach Us is designed for kids, showing them all the things puppies can teach. Large format, full-color photos are paired with simple life "lessons" such as ‘It’s polite to share,’ ‘Try to clean your plate at every meal,’ ‘Sit still when you’re asked to,’ and other exemplar puppy (and kid!)behavior. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Loving puppies, learning social skills
My 7 year old daughter loves puppies and sometimes needs a bit of redirection and encouragement when it comes to relating to the world around her. I saw this book and knew it was for her! The pictures are adorable and the sayings with the pictures are concise and positive, including, "It may be hard, but sometimes you have to share" and "Sometimes friends don't look anything like you". "Don't be afraid to try new things" features a puppy in a life vest on a diving board. One of my favorites, "Teasing is never nice" shows one puppy sticking out its tongue at the other. I'm not sure how the author got the picture of that, but it is very adorable. My daughter now refers to the contents as her "puppy rules". I recommend this book for every preschool, elementary school and home with young children to encourage them with great messages about getting along with others and taking care of themselves. ... Read more

Book Description

Imagine walking to the same place every day, to meet your best friend. Imagine watching hundreds of people pass by every morning and every afternoon. Imagine waiting, and waiting, and waiting. For ten years. This is what Hachiko did.
Hachiko was a real dog who lived in Tokyo, a dog who faithfully waited for his owner at the Shibuya train station long after his owner could not come to meet him. He became famous for his loyalty and was adored by scores of people who passed through the station every day. This is Hachiko"s story through the eyes of Kentaro, a young boy whose life is changed forever by his friendship with this very special dog.
Simply told, and illustrated with Yan Nascimbene"s lush watercolors, the legend of Hachiko will touch your heart and inspire you as it has inspired thousands all over the world. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A heartwarming tale for all ages
When my 14-year old daughter heard the story of Hachiko, her voice caught in her throat as she cried out, "Oh!" and hid her tears. This poignant story of man's best friend is beautifully told by Pamela Turner. It will warm the hearts of readers of all ages.

A story sure to inspire you
This story of a dog's undeviating commitment to his master is sure to inspire you and warm your heart. It is beautifully told by a sensitive woman with firsthand experience of Japanese culture. The simple, lovely watercolor illustrations are endearing as well. My eyes swam before I got through this tender tale. ... Read more

Book Description

Boom! Bang! Guns fire! Cannons roar! George Washington is fighting in the American Revolution. He
sees a dog lost on the battlefield. Whose dog is it? How will it find its master? Early readers will be surprised to find out what happens in this little-known true story about America’s first president. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

A Great Read Aloud for President's Day!
This easy reader is a delightful story to share with all students. The information gained about President Washington is unforgettable. Children will love that George named his dog "Sweetlips" and they won't forget that he was super kind and honest to one of his enemies! This book will be a staple in classrooms across the country and this true story of George may replace his "Cherry Tree" tale. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Great for the little one, great for Mom and Dad
This was one of my son's first favorite books. He would listen to me read it as many times as I was willing, and because of Wegman's non-cutesy approach, that was many times indeed. Although the dog-formed letters aren't as clear as text, they don't need to be - there are many other instances of the letters on each page, and hearing them is as important as seeing them. Overall, a great experience in enjoying reading for parent and child alike.

A new approach to the alphabet
This book made me wish learning the a-b-c's were this much fun back in my own childhood. The photos are amazingly original and your kids will truly enjoy coming back to their letter lessons with Wegman's adorable dogs. A very fresh approach to teaching! NOTE: check out Wegman's fairy tales featuring his prize dogs too.

Humorous for children AND adults
My 5 year old son has this book memorized. He laughs everytime he reads it. It has also been very helpful in teaching him the alphabet. It is an especially fun book for us since our pet is a Weimeraner.

As much for grown ups as for children
Funny with a different sense of humor. Characters become quickly familiar. My two-year old's favorite (and I don't even like dogs!).

Difficult for young children to visualize the letters
My daughter loves dogs so I thought she could learn the alphabet and enjoy the pictures of the dogs. Well, she loved the pictures of the dogs, but the letters were very difficult for her to visualize. This is not a book to help with the alphabet as much as it is for the visual creativity. ... Read more

Book Description

Freckles is the true story of a dog abandoned in the southern Arizona desert. Frightened and alone, she gives birth to six puppies and she somehow manages to protect them all from the heat and from coyotes, hawks, and other dangers. The dog and her pups are eventually rescued by a deputy sheriff and kept in a jail cell where they are cared for by the inmates.

When they’re old enough, the puppies are adopted, but no one wants the rather beat-up mom. Then a woman visits the jail and falls in love with the little white dog with brown spots and takes her home.

Day by day, the dog they’ve named Freckles provides the woman and her husband with clues about her mysterious past. Amazed by what they learn and by the intuitive way in which Freckles takes care of their granddaughter and their other dogs, they enroll her in a program that leads to her becoming a pet therapy dog. Once homeless and abused, Freckles now provides unconditional love to children, many of whom come from backgrounds similar to her own.

Freckles–The Mystery of the Little White Dog in the Desert is a gentle, inspiring story that promotes not only a deeper appreciation for all animals, but also for each other. Written for children, Freckles is certain to be loved by everyone. It includes a glossary of desert terms used in the book, story discussion topics to aid teachers and parents, and additional information about adopting pets and about animal-assisted therapy. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Especially for young animal lovers
Paul M. Howey's Freckles: The Mystery Of The Little White Dog In The Desert is a heartwarming true story about the love and comradeship offered by a dog and her puppies. The black-and-white illustrations of Judy Mehn Zabriskie adds an especially endearing touch of charm to the text story, which is sophisticated enough to appeal to young readers who are almost ready to move on from picturebooks to more complicated reading material. Freckles is highly recommended - especially for young animal lovers.

My Friend Freckles
I was able to meet Freckles before the book came out. At that time she was somewhat withdrawn. As time went by and with love and care by Paul and his wife Trish, she has become a warm and loving creature. Now, with the popularity of her (or Paul's) book, she is a shining star. She brings this life to the children she visits.
I am biased, but this is truly a magical story of being found, being loved and giving all the love back. It's a story for all children of any age.

Heartwarming and Uplifting
What a beautiful story about man's love and appreciation for one of our true friends. A touching story to read children of all ages. Proof that dogs like humans care deeply for their young and will nuture and protect them. When given the chance these beautiful creatures will give back in many rewarding ways. Kudos to Mr. Howey for his ability to put this on paper with such style and grace. The illustrations by MS. Judy Zabriskie could not have completed this book any better. If you did not fall in love with the words, you would with the illustrations.

Fantastic
Freckles: The Mystery of the Little White Dog in the Desert is an absolute must for anyone who loves pets. Heartwarming and touching, Freckles will make you realize that miracles do happen and that pets are truly one of the greatest blessings ever. The illustrations are absolutely spectacular. I highly recommend Freckles. This is a warm, wonderful, inspiring and touching book.

WONDERFUL!!!!!
FRECKLES IS HEARTWARMING AND INSIGHTFUL!

Justin, my six-year-old nephew, read Freckles to me today. He then crawled up in my lap and asked me to read it to him.

He interrupted me long before ever getting to the last page.

He asked me how many hugs he would need to give me for me to give him my favorite book.

We're just beginning to understand infinity.

It's truly a wonderful story!
Thanks!

With much love,
Auntie Ann and Justin ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Balto: not just for kids
We purchased this book after seeing the real Balto (courtesy of the art of taxidermy) at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. Our quest in Northeast Ohio, where Balto enjoyed his senior years, was prompted by my seven year-old daughter's love-affair with the animated film about this dog, who navigated a lost sled team carrying life-saving medicine through Alaska in 1925. I hereby confess publicly that, after myself reading the book, which is aimed at the 9 year-old set, I cried, much as I had done 35 years before after reading "Lassie Come Home." This account, however, is much more compelling than "Lassie" or "Old Yeller," because it entirely factual (possibly excepting the subjective thoughts imputed to the protagonist).

The author did her homework researching this story about a sled dog who was just one of the pack facing poor odds against daunting weather and unrequiting expanses of blinding snow and ice. When the alpha dog loses the trail, and another refuses to lead, the team turns to Balto to bring them and their cargo safely to rest in Nome.

Perhaps Balto deserves an authentic, grown-up biography, but this one will serve in the meantime. It appears to be the definitive account.

A teacher in PA
This is an excellent book if you are interested in the Iditarod race in Alaska.The book helps young children understand the importance of perserverence and is a great introduction to history for the very young (6-8).A true story that inspires people to understand the bond between animals and people. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Fun book for toddlers with dogs in their lives
Great photos and cute rhymes make this a perfect book for our son, especially because he shares his home with two dogs and is exposed to many more at dog agility shows. ... Read more

Book Description

From cold-nose wake-up to bedtime with a Little Dog-shaped lump under the covers, a day that a little girl spends with her Little Dog is recounted in thirty short, playful poems and enchanting watercolor illustrations. Little Dog protects the little girl from vacuum cleaners and beetles, chases cats, digs up flowers, and waits hopefully as kitchen preparations take place and as popcorn is eaten. The little girl, who loves Little Dog enough to "bake / birthday cookies with / liver powder," retrieves tennis balls, brings home a present from the pet store, and observes how little a wet Little Dog becomes at bath time. A perfect introduction to the pleasures of poetry, this beguiling volume belongs on every young dog lover's bookshelf. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Little Dog Poems & Little Dog and Duncan
I have read both of these Little Dog books to my first grade students and they enjoyed each and every poem very much!!! Many of my students bonded with the child and her dog and had lots of stories to tell and write about their own experiences with pets.
These are two of my favorite books to read to them when I talk about poems not having to rhyme to be poems. I wish Ms. George would write more books about Little Dog and his experiences!

Endearing...
Kristine O'Connell George has written one of the most endearing books of the year....Every poem illuminates another incident in the busy life of Little Dog, and dog-owners are sure to recognize their own pets in him. June Otani's watercolors are as charming as the text.

"Awwww!"
This book is a delight for young dog lovers and parents of young dog lovers. The poems are easy to read and charmingly illustrated with watercolors by June Otani. If you can read this one without one out-loud, 'Awwww!' you've got a heart made of stone.

Warm, loving and funny!
My second graders just fell in love with this book. Viva Little Dog

BIG fun!
LITTLE DOG PEOMS may be a little book to hold in your hand, but it's big with imagery, big with understanding of dog behavior and especially big on the fun and special relationship that a child and her dog share. George captures this spunky Little Dog in poems of suitable size. No wasted words here. The essence of each poem, like an enthusiastic puppy, leaps up in tight word pictures that take your breath away with their warmth and rightness. ... Read more

Book Description

Games and activities for kids and canines

Here's a great way to teach a dog some new tricks. With the super ideas and activities in this book, there's no end to the fun you'll have playing with your favorite four-legged friend. From shooting hoops to jumping through hoops, from taking a photo to taking a shower, Totally Fun Things to Do with Your Dog has an amazing array of activities you can share. Discover new variations on playing catch and fetch, or teach your dog to play hide and seek. You can even throw a special party for your special pooch-pal. Basic training tips are also included along with fascinating facts about dogs. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

This is a kids' book!
This is a kids' book! Well guess what, I had somehow missed that vital bit of information. If I'd known, I would never have purchased Totally Fun Things to do With your Dog.

A Totally Cool Book!
This book is great! If you enjoy spending time with your dog, or want to, read this book. It has projects you can do with your dog. tricks you can teach. Fun games you can play. And exellent tips. I got this book, and i love it. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Dog talk is not merely whimpers, growls, sniffs, barks, and howls.According to award-winning author Jean Craighead George, it's in the tail ("the flag of feelings") and ear twists, too. In this irresistible picture book, you'll learn how to speak to your dog in his or her own language.Sniff his nose to say hello, for example. (You don't have to lick back, even though it would please him.) While you'll never be a match for your dog in the sniffing department, you can look deeply into his eyes or you can whimper to show you care. Don't growl or bark, however. ("Although it's fun, it is not very rewarding to bark at your dog. He doesn't understand your bad accent and may twist his head and look at you in confusion.")

Sue Truesdell's splendidly doggish illustrations interact with photos of Jean Craighead George herself--a woman who has been around dogs her whole life. Dog lovers of all ages will run in circles for this loving, funny celebration of the human-canine relationship. For those who prefer cats, investigate the companion title, How to Talk to Your Cat. (Ages 7 to 107) ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Great Book
Although this book is short it is great for younger children and is an over-all guide to "Dog talk".You should buy this book, I truly recommend it!

THE CAT'S MEOW! GREAT ADVICE AND HOWLING FUN ILLUSTRATIONS
Let's start simply and honestly, the same way these tomes approach their subject matter, and say these are the cat's meow! Jean Craighead George has penned two ultra-thin volumes on communicating with our best friends and felines, and each is a howling success. The Newberry Medal-winning author does what someone like Elizabeth Marshall Thomas has tried to do in books tens of thousands words and pages longer and could not. Jean, by George, had found the winning ways to teach pet lovers how to chat with their four-footed pals. Her writing is sparse: "A lick is not a kiss. It is a statement that says you're a wonderful leader." Her advice is refreshing: "Growling is aggressive
talk. Don't growl back. Dogs don't like that." As special as her words is the whimiscal use of arkwork: actual color photos of the animated author interacting with illustrations (by Sue Truesdell) of equally animated cartoon cats and dogs. (We just love the one of George on all fours, rubbing heads with a cat!) Four paws up!

More Harm Then Education
When I was given this book by a client I was thrilled.The book's a brilliant red front cover is beautifully illustrated with a cartoon dog.The inside pages are illustrated with more canine cartoons interacting with photos.At first glance it seems to be an intriguing children's book.Unfortunately the cover of this book is where all positive comments end.

I believe the author's intention in this book is to teach canine communication skills.If I am correct in this assumption, she not only failed miserably but may have caused more harm then education.

She advises "To say hello to your dog, sniff toward his nose.That's dog talk.He will answer by pulling his ears back and close to his head.What he is saying is 'Hello, Leader".Ms. Craighead-George is describing a dog who is telling their nose-sniffing-human "This is a bit uncomfortable, please stop". A dog's ears going back can be a conflict behavior.

She goes onto say "'Good night' in dog talk is physical.Rub your dog's head, ears and neck.Lower your lids and sigh into his fur. You are the mother dog licking her pup off to sleep."Although I often enjoy a nice snuggle with my dog I am relatively certain he knows I am not his mother or a dog.I was relieved that she did not suggest I lick my dog, we all have to draw the line somewhere.

Ms. Craighead-George advises "'Good-bye' is a whisk of the tail, then turning and walking off.Since you don't have a tail, swish your hand downward and show your back.If your dog does not choose to hear this unwelcome message and races after you, tell him, `I am the boss,' in dog talk, then repeat the dog `good-bye'."I will admit to frequently suffering from serious bouts of tail-envy but I'm afraid my hand waving behind my rear end is a bit of a stretch in wishful thinking.

Ms. Craighead -George crosses the line from embarrassingly silly to potentially dangerous in her section titled "How do you say `I am the boss'?"She advises, "The most effective way is to put your mouth on his muzzle.That means in dog talk that you are the leader.His ears will go back and against his head, and his tail will lower.This is his way of saying, `Yes, you are my leader'."I suspect many people who attempt this will have time to contemplate what their dog was really saying ("You have totally lost your mind and you are frightening the heck out of me") while they wait patiently in the emergency room to have their dog bite treated.

She suggests if your dog becomes anxious or confused you should "Sniff his nose to tell him not to be angry or confused.Nose sniffs are peace talk."I have a sincere concern that for a dog that is in an anxiety situation, a human sticking their face in his to sniff his nose may increase the stress level to a point where the dog may feel he has no other option but to bite the face that sniffs him.

It is cautioned in "How to Talk to Your Dog" that children should not roll onto their backs while playing with their dog or they will be saying in dog language "I am your humble servant".My own dogs must be the most misinformed canines on the planet.They have three young humble servants in their household and they don't even realize it!

I would recommend that the author stay with ridiculous but harmless comments suggest as "You can pass other messages with your eyes.Think, `I love you.I love you,' and your lower lid will involuntarily come up and soften your expression.Your dog will read that and return this message by softening his eyes."

I am still uncertain to what population this book is directed.I can only hope it was not written for innocent children and will only fall into the hands of adults who will quickly realize this book for the nonsensical hogwash that it is.

Good book, but assumes too much of children
This book shows young people the joys of communicating with dogs, from how to recognize dog talk through body language to the various ways animals communicate through whimpers, sniffs, and barks. The book, however, assumes that young children will know not to apply these very "hands-on" techniques to strange dogs--a very dangerous assumption that could lead to dog bites. The book offers two suggestions that one should never do in front of an aggressive dog: one is to wave a newspaper above the dog's head, the other is to sniff a dog's nose to calm an angry or confused dog down. Children should never be expected to calm an angered or aggressive dog down. While the book has lots of good information on dog behavior that could benefit both children and adults, it lacks the cautionary requirements to keep kids from getting bitten by dogs too.

A Doggone Good Book
Did you know that dogs don't just use their voice to communicate, but also their eyes, nose, tail, ears and even body position?Jean Craighead George has written a charming and humorous book that will not only help you understand your dog, but help you "talk" right back to him.As she explains on page one, "No one will ever love you as much as your dog does". He will be your friend for life, so why not speak his own language.Ms George's easy to read and informative text coupled with Sue Truesdell's delightful illustrations will make you a canine communicator in no time.This is the perfect book your whole family can enjoy together and a must read if you have or are planning on getting a dog.So find out what you dog is really telling you...and talk back! ... Read more