Duke
Scholastic Inc | ISBN 9780545416382 Paperback
240 Pages | 5.27" x 7.58" | Ages 8 to 12
Scholastic Inc | ISBN 9780545416375 Hardcover
240 Pages | 5.71" x 8.53" | Ages 8 to 12
Scholastic Inc | ISBN 9780545576444 Ebook
240 Pages | Ages 8 to 12
A poignant World War II story about a boy and his dog and his dad, and the many meanings of bravery.
With World War II raging and his father fighting overseas in Europe, eleven-year-old Hobie Hanson is determined to do his part to help his family and his country, even if it means giving up his beloved German shepherd, Duke. Hoping to help end the war and bring his dad home faster, Hobie decides to donate Duke to Dogs for Defense, an organization that urges Americans to "loan" their pets to the military to act as sentries, mine sniffers, and patrol dogs.
Hobie immediately regrets his decision and tries everything he can to get Duke back, even jeopardizing his friendship with the new boy at school. But when his father is taken prisoner by the Germans, Hobie realizes he must let Duke go and reach deep within himself to be brave. Will Hobie ever see Duke, or his father, again? Will life ever be the same?
Raves & reviews:
Praise for Duke:
"Exceptionally well-crafted and emotionally authentic." -Kirkus, starred review
"[An] incisive tale of loyalty, patriotism, sacrifice, and bravery." -Publishers Weekly, starred review
" Larson weaves a wonderfully genuine attachment between boy and dog and thoughtfully examines Hobie's conflicted emotions as Duke gets partnered with a battle-bound Marine." -School Library Journal
"A good example of how bravery comes in all shapes, sizes - and breeds." -Booklist