Working Like a Dog

December 1, 2003
Gr 5-9-A thoroughly researched and captivating offering. Gorrell begins by tracing the evolution of "household canids" from the wild into the civilized world. Other chapters delve into the many ways in which these animals have been viewed throughout history, what makes particular breeds right for certain jobs, dogs at war, famous pooches, etc. Youngsters learn that canines have been used for food, sport, sacrifice, protection, slave control, maritime work, bear deterrence, and, of course, companionship. The author introduces many real-life workers, such as Opal, a yellow Lab in training to guide the blind; Dart, a German shepherd that sniffs out illegal catches of seafood; and Servus, a Belgian Malinois that nearly died at the ruins of the World Trade Center. The well-captioned, black-and-white photographs and reproductions add greatly to a narrative that's packed with intriguing details. Extensive source notes and a selected bibliography complete the package. Report writers will find a wealth of information here, and all readers will gain a strong appreciation for these four-legged wonders.-Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Copyright 2003 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2003
Gr. 4-8. As entertaining as it is informative, this comprehensive volume traces the evolution and remarkable service history of man's best friend. Kids will certainly enjoy reading about daring real-life rescues and celebrity dogs such as Air Bud; equally fascinating is the information about the dog's evolution, from wolves and then into the assortment of breeds that we know today. Children will also be amazed to learn how specially trained dogs can sniff out bombs, drugs, and missing people, and even sense ahead of time when their owners are going to have an epileptic seizure. Other chapters have information on the instincts of hunting dogs and the role dogs have played in war throughout history. Numerous archival photographs and reproductions of artwork break up the lengthy text and provide visual interest. Researchers will find links to other sources through the bibliography, which includes Web sites, and the source notes.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2003, American Library Association.)