Duke (Dogs of World War II)

About this book

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?
With powerful storytelling and gripping emotion, critically acclaimed author Kirby Larson explores the many ways bravery and love help us to weather the most difficult times.

Reviews

Praise for Duke:

*"Exceptionally well-crafted and emotionally authentic." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

*"[An] incisive tale of loyalty, patriotism, sacrifice, and bravery." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review

"A good example of how bravery comes in all shapes, sizes -- and breeds." -- Booklist


Praise for Dear America: The Fences Between Us:

"Larson deftly folds historical detail into Piper's lively diary entries, which describe her friendships, first romance, and school dramas as well as her view of the subsequent internment of Japanese Americans and the prejudice against sympathizers." -- Booklist

"Larson does an excellent job recreating the tension Piper feels. . . . [a] well-researched novel." -- VOYA

Praise for Hattie Big Sky:

A Newbery Honor Recipient

*"[An] engaging historical novel... [Larson] creates a richly textured novel full of memorable characters." -- Booklist, starred review

*"Larson... create[s] a masterful picture of the homesteading experience and the people who persevered." -- School Library Journal, starred review

"Refreshing." -- Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books