I don’t intentionally read this series out of order. For those of you who follow me, I have mentioned in some of my previous reviews of series books, I don’t intentionally read this series out of order. For those of you who follow me, I have mentioned in some of my previous reviews of series books, that I am a lucky person with the donations I receive to my Little Free Library Shed. And, I also only read print versions of books from my local library. So, if books aren’t available through those means, I may not get to read a book right-away or at all. Or, when I do get it, it may not be for several years, like in the case of this book.
Also, I don’t always post an older book I may start to read in my GR reading pile. Sometimes I may read a book, but may not necessarily want to review it. And, in this case, I wasn’t sure how I was going to address this book, until now. Especially since it is a long-time series. My question usually being, will I have something new to contribute about the series or the book in another review?
The Andy Carpenter series, is one of my favorites. It follows Andy Carpenter, a criminal defense attorney who happens to love dogs. And, on many occasions, like this one, he will find himself, representing them, along with humans. And, in this particular case, Milo, a retired military German Shepherd dog is worth Andy’s time defending in court and fostering. Readers also get to appreciate Rosenfelt’s regular returning ‘character,’ Andy’s golden retriever, Tara....more
“The library should be thought of as a river where knowledge flows.”
There is something about this author that should be noted. And that is, her absolu“The library should be thought of as a river where knowledge flows.”
There is something about this author that should be noted. And that is, her absolute love of libraries and books and those stewards responsible for them, can be felt deeply through the pages. Consider the quote above. It truly is giving all of us a sense of the importance of libraries and what we can hope to gain from their existence.
And, it was also felt to be true in her debut novel, “The Paris Library.” The impact that a library has on a community.
So, I was obviously interested when I saw this one displayed so prominently at my local library. It was meant for me to read, right?
This book feels like a series of quotes to appreciate and opportunities for self-reflection. At least for me. I can’t begin to tell you how many times I would start and stop reading just to pause and contemplate what the author just wrote. As an example, the very first line of the book shares…
“You can learn a lot about a life by looking in someone’s closet.”
Makes one wonder just how revealing we are, if we were to take a tour of each other’s closets.
“The stories this cloth could tell…It had seen love and hate, sacrifice and stinginess, longing and hope, despair and courage. Always courage.”
I’m not sure if that is what my closet would reveal. But if you were to take a closer look, it might show a very casual person whose uniform of the past was closer to a nice suit and sensible heels. Now, I am happy with comfortable leggings, a t-shirt and sweatshirt or hoodie for added warmth, and homely safe flats! And, maybe my jeans.
And, that was my point about all these various ‘quote’ moments. Sometimes being in a moment of self-reflection felt like a better place to be than our confused, messy world right now.
In the case of our characters, there is something to be noted about their service to country, and how their clothing/‘uniform’ interpreted their role.
Or a ribbon with engraved words that show off the women’s motto…
“Do right and fear no man.”
Was that the symbol that could possibly carry these women as they lived through a war? Maybe it should be our calling card for women in today’s era now?
Mostly, as I continued on through the book, I found myself sometimes entranced by the poetic feel to the author’s writing that could give any reader the opportunity to feel deeply about what was being said. Like…
“The past presses on me, memories fill the air.”
Doesn’t that happen to all of us at some point? Consider some of these issues that would take us to that place…The passing of time. Aging. Illness. Death of loved ones. The way things were. All could easily translate to moments of memories.
But this is what got to me most…
“Imagine being surrounded by more books than anyone could read in a lifetime. Imagine the limitless possibilities of stories and truths and adventures.”
The life of a librarian. These people within the book.
My ultimate dream would be to have an overnight stay at such a library. Can you imagine that experience?
For those of you who follow me, I get the majority of my books from my local library. But I do have to wait for them, a long time sometimes, especiallFor those of you who follow me, I get the majority of my books from my local library. But I do have to wait for them, a long time sometimes, especially when they are by bestselling authors, like this one. I ordered this book on May 14, 2025, and according to the library I was still #16 on the list as of June 15th.This meant I most likely would not see this book for check-out until sometime in 2026, if I was lucky!
How did I come up with that conclusion?
As it so happens, new library books are allowed to be checked out for 3 weeks at a time by library patrons. Which means that if each library patron checked out this book for the allotted 3 weeks each, I may not see this book until June of 2026. Of course, if the library had multiple copies of the book, I may be able to read it sooner. But budgets this year are tight because cutbacks at the federal level. So, word on down is that less library books were being purchased for the system. ...more
I was in a conundrum. There were several books I would start and then stop because I couldn’t connect to the story. Was I in a reading slump?
I had abI was in a conundrum. There were several books I would start and then stop because I couldn’t connect to the story. Was I in a reading slump?
I had abandoned Jack Reacher books years ago because it felt too formulaic. But my husband continued to read the Reacher stories, including those that are now being written by Lee’s brother Andrew. My husband is even a fan of ‘Reacher,’ the Amazon Prime series. So, what was I willing to do? Try one. This one.
“…this is America. The law applies to him the same as everyone else.”
Regarding this above quote…if only.
The year is 1992. The descriptive prologue grabbed me in an instant. I could feel the tension and drama immediately as I quickly turned pages. It also provided a mystery, in that readers were not certain who the character was that was being ‘interrogated’ by 2 women, nor why. And then, the women do something that leaves readers stunned. What possessed them to do so?
And now, there is Reacher. Back in his early life as a Military Police Investigator. What was this case in which former scientists were dying and why would the Secretary of Defense be interested in it? Were these deaths natural, unfortunate accidents or murder?
In typical fashion, Reacher is Reacher. And, for those who have not read this series, it may be best to start from the beginning, with “Killing Floor.” I have read quite a few of the Reacher stories, long before I joined Goodreads, so there are very few of my reviews posted here. But I do recommend considering reading other Goodreads fans reviews, and/or Child’s earlier Reacher books to get a sense of Reacher and his history.
As a long-ago fan of Reacher, I always appreciated how he could use his brawn and brain to diffuse an argument. But as his character aged, it was harder to suspend disbelief for all the times he continued to physically exert himself, and not feel the problems associated from such exertion as an older character. So, it was nice to be back in a story with a younger version of Reacher.
Through methodical breaks in the story, A. Child takes readers between the 2 women perpetrators, the Secretary of Defense, and Reacher’s case before being asked to head up this particular investigation. The story moves adeptly and seamlessly through these different scenarios. Readers can’t help but wonder, what is going on and how will all of this come together?
Once Reacher is in charge of this new investigation, the biggest question for him and his team to answer is what happened in India in 1969, and why are those involved on the scientific team being systematically targeted? Is this ‘the secret’ that the title of this book alludes to being? And, why are the perpetrators telling their targets their names? Are they avenging someone? And, if so, why?
Also, will Reacher get to the scientists in time before someone else is harmed? Including his own team? And, will the lead person responsible for the incident in 1969 be held accountable?
“And that puts him above the law?”
Most importantly, who really are the good guys here, besides Reacher, of course?
This fast-moving, page-turning, engaging, suspense-filled, story will no doubt appeal to Reacher fans. But will it be a surprise ending, or will readers figure it out? Still, for those of us who have been away for a while, it was nice to experience Reacher at this stage of his life. It made his large presence and fighting capabilities more credible.
One last thing…Reacher definitely broke my reading slump. ☺️ ...more
When I read her debut book, “The Other Woman” I had no words. I just knew it was better for anyone reading the book to go in blindly, and just read itWhen I read her debut book, “The Other Woman” I had no words. I just knew it was better for anyone reading the book to go in blindly, and just read it! I was so wowed by her.
So, when this book was donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I instantly was excited to read it. Of course, it doesn’t help to have high expectations after reading an author and giving them 5 stars!
So, does Jones deliver again? Oh yes!
What happens when what we thought was real, may not be? And, what happens when we question whether we truly know those people we love and care about? Especially our significant partner? And, possibly our best friend?
Once again, it is easiest to go into this story with as little information about it as possible. Just know that once you do, you will not want to put this book down. It is a twisty, sinister, never-saw-this-one-coming, juicy, layered, page-turning, domestic suspense thriller that will keep readers guessing up to the last page....more
Recently, I got a Facebook memory of my review of the author and co-writer, David Ellis’ book, “Unsolved.” As I re-read my review which was posted in Recently, I got a Facebook memory of my review of the author and co-writer, David Ellis’ book, “Unsolved.” As I re-read my review which was posted in April, 2023, a sentence stood out to me…
“I’m not sure adding a second author is going to save James Patterson any longer.”
So, why do I bring this up? Because, for whatever reason, I am still reading James Patterson and his various co-author’s books. Why?
First, I was curious about “Eruption” which was him partnering with the long-dead author, Michael Crichton, which his part was written long before his death. 3.5 stars rounded down.
Second, I am a fan of Miss Marple and Sherlock Holmes, so I was curious about his book, “Holmes, Marple & Poe.” 3.5 stars rounded up. When I attempted to read the second in the series, I found myself DNF’ing it and returning it to my local library.
Third, I also wondered how things would work out with his partnership with Dolly Parton, since I am a long-time fan of hers, when they co-wrote, “Run, Rose Run.” 3 stars (I loved Dolly’s part, but it wasn’t enough.)
Forth, how could I resist his partnership with former President Bill Clinton, when they co-wrote, “The President is Missing?” 3 stars
Fifth, his books are one of the most “checked out” and donated to my Little Free Library Shed.
And, lastly as a lover of libraries and bookstores, I couldn’t resist being curious about his “The Secret Lives of Booksellers and Librarians.” Woo hoo, 5 stars!
So, there you have it. At least 6 reasons why I was still reading James Patterson. But to be honest, I am not giving his books very high ratings, other than his non-fiction book, “The Secret Lives…”
So, why even read another one of his thrillers?
Good question.
On the cover of this book, it says very specifically…
“You’ll never forget the ending.”
Is that enough to entice me? So, I asked myself if I should just read the ending and be done with James Patterson. (I didn’t do that.)
Would his co-author, J.D. Barker change my mind about this book?
It appears that J.D. Barker, an international bestselling American author on his own, has also been a prolific writer. But I have never read any of his books. Probably because his suspense thrillers incorporate horror, science fiction and the supernatural. Not my genres. But if it is yours, maybe this pairing might make you curious enough to read Barker’s books.
Well, I did read this book. So, how did I really feel about it? What do my stars above say?
2.5 stars rounded up for quick page-turner!
We have a best-selling author, a murdered husband, and Detective Declan Shaw being requested at the scene. Is this a set-up? To what? And why?
To say anything more about this story would give too much away. So, I will get straight to the point, because obviously I haven’t throughout this review.
This story is so full of twists and red herrings, and more twists, that I felt like I was experiencing whiplash throughout. My neck hurts from all the twists. And then, there is that ending. Meow! ...more
I was sad when Baldacci ended his ‘Camel Club’ series. But I was particularly frustrated because I could never find a copy of this book inCatching up…
I was sad when Baldacci ended his ‘Camel Club’ series. But I was particularly frustrated because I could never find a copy of this book in the series. So, in many ways I felt like I was incomplete in having all the parts of the ‘Camel Club.’ So, when this one was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of glee that I would finally be able to read it.
The “Camel Club” is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. They investigate political conspiracies. There are 4 members besides Oliver which include Milton Farb, Caleb Shaw, Reuben Rhodes and honorary member, Alex Ford. Each person brings a unique set of skills to the table and to their own investigations. This is the second book in the series.
Readers who enjoy reoccurring characters who fight for a cause will appreciate the ‘Camel Club’s’ camaraderie. The story balances it with intrigue and espionage. Which feels true to form for their mission. After all, this group’s purpose is to keep the government accountable to the people. They are talented men who now are taking on dangerous cases because something is not right in government.
This one was published in 2006, but re-visiting it only makes me nostalgic for what I came to appreciate about this group when I first was introduced to them in book 1, “The Camel Club.”
Still, I can’t help but wonder…
Could there possibly be a real-life version of the Camel Club out there, please? ...more
This is the 3rd installment of the “Camel Club” series. The “Camel Club” is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. ThCatching up…
This is the 3rd installment of the “Camel Club” series. The “Camel Club” is a group led by Oliver Stone, a former CIA-trained assassin. They investigate political conspiracies. There are 4 members besides Oliver which include Milton Farb, Caleb Shaw, Reuben Rhodes and honorary member, Alex Ford. Each person brings a unique set of skills to the table and to their own investigations.
In this story, we get more of Oliver’s back story. A past that may be too present for comfort, as members of an elite force called Triple-Six, have been dying under suspicious circumstances. So, even though Oliver’s true identity is dead and buried, having been a part of this elite force back in the day, could someone out there know his truth? Is Oliver in danger now?
This is a fast-paced, riveting roller-coaster action thriller that will have many twists and turns to make readers almost dizzy. While this could be read as a stand-alone, it may be more fulfilling if readers start with the first book, “The Camel Club.”...more
Billie, Helen, Mary Alice and Natalie aren’t typical retired co-workers who have been summoned by their former employer ‘the Museum’ for a reunion. ThBillie, Helen, Mary Alice and Natalie aren’t typical retired co-workers who have been summoned by their former employer ‘the Museum’ for a reunion. They are trained ‘retired’ assassins. For those who are unfamiliar with these characters, start with the author’s first book in the series, “Killers of a Certain Age.”
Even though the author does a relatively good job of bringing readers up to speed with the women and their history in this book, it is best to read this series in order.
Readers soon learn there is something off with this reunion summons. Used to 1st class accommodations, the women are taken aback when they realize that this ‘trip’ is Best Western hotel, with a compact rental car, and flying in coach economy. What is really going on?
Well, could it have anything to do with a revenge plot against the women who may have assassinated someone in the past?
What will the girls do to save themselves, and find the mole that is trying to bring ‘the Museum’ down?
For those who like a little sense of humor with their killings, this page-turning romp should be an easy-breezy, read. But to be honest, I think I am done with the series. It lacks substance. And, I am over the gore....more
The book cover shares a question at the top which states…
“What if the witness was more twisted than the killer?”
Entering the prologue, readers can’t The book cover shares a question at the top which states…
“What if the witness was more twisted than the killer?”
Entering the prologue, readers can’t help but be left with a lot of questions about Ruby Johnson, especially when her own grandmother shared ‘there is something wrong with Ruby.’ Is Ruby the twisted witness #8? And, who is the killer? And, why?
Enter Eddie Flynn, defense attorney. This book is part of the Eddie Flynn series, so it is recommended that readers consider reading these books in order to gain a better perspective and history of the characters. Still, the author does a good job of catching readers up, so it could be read as a stand-alone.
A murder occurs. A witness sees what is happening and decides to use it to their advantage. And, a respected doctor is wrongly accused of the murder, a lot because of what the witness has put in motion. Why? What were the motives of the witness? Will Eddie Flynn and his team be able to find out the truth, and thus, prove their client innocent?
This is a twisted thriller with a captivating and riveting surprise outcome. Told from multiple points of view, this well-paced but imperfect plot page-turner with flawed and multi-layered characters will keep readers engaged....more
The author shares in their notes section at the end, “I don’t like killing people.” And yet, that is exactly what readers will experience. Soon to be The author shares in their notes section at the end, “I don’t like killing people.” And yet, that is exactly what readers will experience. Soon to be dead persons. With some unlikable characters. Does that mean we are glad the person died? When did readers become so callous? To say more would provide spoilers, and that is not my thing to offer.
So, I will share only the premise, that a very popular author of mysteries is found dead, and everyone in her hemisphere is considered a suspect.
What I can say is that this is a clever who-dunit that will most likely hook readers from the beginning. Of course, the fact that it is a large book with 470 pages, means that readers will need to be committed to wanting to stay with it. And, if they do, readers may feel rewarded by their tenacity, as they frantically turn pages to unravel the mystery. Regardless of how many pages need to be conquered.
It is also a story told from multiple points of view, with lots of characters to keep track of; and, many subplots. And, for those of us who don’t like keeping lists of characters, this may be a slight unfortunate distraction. But it still delivers a roller coaster ride of twists, suspense, tension and intrigue....more
This is a terribly sad, and at times difficult to read story with no apparent happy resolution. Catching up…
I am now bringing my review to Goodreads.
This is a terribly sad, and at times difficult to read story with no apparent happy resolution.
It is 1968 and a young girl (maybe age 11 or 12) named Sonia is killed in a Pakistan neighborhood known for being a red-light district. What was she doing there? A police officer, Faraz Ali is sent to cover-up the crime. Why?
Faraz Ali has a very complicated past. And, a very complicated relationship with his powerful father, Wajid, who was the one who gave the order to cover-up the crime. Who is Wajid protecting?
The problem for Ali is that he has a conscious. He wants a murder investigation. And, thus a police procedural takes place for readers. One of my favorite genres.
At the same time, readers are taken to an earlier time in WWII, when Wajid was a soldier for the British Empire, who has been captured and thrown into a POW camp in Libya. How does this affect his future self?
This is an intergenerational saga that touches on a lot of sensitive trigger issues – i.e., war, child and adult prostitution, poverty, the life of a courtesan, domineering parentage. The characters are real feeling against a compelling plot. It is also filled with vivid descriptions of violence, which impacted my experience as a reader. In those instances, it was easier to skip read those sections.
Jasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship by heading onto a plane to Denver. Stephanie is on a business trip to San Diego. They become seatmates on tJasmine is fleeing an abusive relationship by heading onto a plane to Denver. Stephanie is on a business trip to San Diego. They become seatmates on the plane.
But what happens next?
Readers begin to meet other characters through their narrative voices. Friends and colleagues who want to know what is happening, because nothing seems as it is.
Where is Jasmine and why isn’t Stephanie coming home as planned? There are some texts received by both for a while, alluding to a man named Trent McCarthy. Who is he and what does he have to do with Jasmine and Stephanie?
Each chapter will give readers an opportunity to know whose narrative voice is telling the story, and what point of time they are in the story – i.e., the day of the flight, the first day of the conference, going to the hotel, etc. The story will also be told in four parts.
And, one question will mostly likely be circulating in readers minds…
What is really going on here?
This is a fast-paced, page-turning, engrossing, suspenseful mystery, with an unpredictable plot that will keep readers at the edge of their seat. With a twist that could be considered surprising. But as readers are flipping pages looking for answers, when they finally come, it is the ending that falls flat and disappoints.
Other than that dissatisfying ending, this is a really readable story. Buckle-up. Please be seated; and, be sure your seatbelt is fastened securely. Readers are in for quite a trip....more
It is 2 in the morning. Ella is on her way to meet her estranged father when she witnesses him being killed by So, let’s see if we get this straight.
It is 2 in the morning. Ella is on her way to meet her estranged father when she witnesses him being killed by an assailant. But that isn’t all.
Attorney, Ted Weldon has just quit his job, and is leaving his office at 2 in the morning. He can’t find a taxi, so he is walking along, when he witnesses a woman being attacked and kidnapped. And then, he is hit and knocked out.
But wait, there is more.
Then, they both wake up. And, find themselves in a cage somewhere on a farm. But they easily escape. And, eventually find a highway where they are picked up by the police. Only to find out that they are wanted by the police for the killing of her father.
What?!
You know, that same woman who witnessed her father being killed by an assailant at 2 in the morning? Yes, that one. And, the same one who was walking down the street after quitting his job at 2 in the morning? Yes, that one. Did you get all that?
Seriously? Supposedly these 2 also know each other? But as it turns out, they don’t know each other. They just met in this very odd way entrapped in a cage at a farm.
So, the question becomes…who set them up and why?
And, that is the gist of this mystery.
So, readers are you still with me?
What really happened at 2 in the morning? But most importantly, what will it take for these 2 to prove their innocence?
This is a fast-moving, page-turning, thriller, with multiple characters (keep a list handy) that is complex and tedious and somewhat complicated. But with its short chapters, it was also quite engaging. I know, I was conflicted about this one.
Two of my favorite characters, Sheriff Lincoln James and Kinsley Rhodes of Harlow, Kansas are back, and I am so happy to have the opportunity to be inTwo of my favorite characters, Sheriff Lincoln James and Kinsley Rhodes of Harlow, Kansas are back, and I am so happy to have the opportunity to be in their world again. And, they are joined by a cute new 4-legged member of the family, named Maizey. But readers, to get the best experience with these characters, start with the author’s first book, “Broken Rhodes.” Review here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
And, then when you come back here with this story, you will find there is more to it than solving a murder. Lincoln has an opponent he is running against in the upcoming election for Sheriff. Will he be able to convince the townspeople that he is still the right person for the job? Especially when he is having difficulty even figuring out who the victim is? And, as Kinsley’s business expands to an office in town, will she have time to plan her wedding to Lincoln?
And, what about Gabby, her best friend who is running to keep her seat on the Commission? How is she doing with running against an opponent? Will she be able to maintain her seat? What else is she up to in town? And, what does the dead body have to do with her past? Will this affect her standing with the occupants of Harlow?
There is a darkness descending on Harlow with secrets and lies that are challenging the community. Will the Sheriff be able to unravel these secrets before it is too late? And what role will Dean McCormack, a head of a biker gang play in this story?
With short chapters, pages will turn quickly as this mystery heats up. Who was murdered and why? Who is threatening the town of Harlow? Will readers witness a wedding for our beloved couple? Will the Sheriff be re-elected? Will Gabby? (No spoilers from me.)
As is typical of Silver, she presents a suspenseful, well-paced, intricate plot with surprising twists and memorable, well-developed characters that will keep readers captivated. Readers…Welcome back to Harlow, Kansas!
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
Londoner Elle is a bit of a mess. She drinks too much, has a foul mouth and a penchant for saying exactly how she feels, that gets her in and out of tLondoner Elle is a bit of a mess. She drinks too much, has a foul mouth and a penchant for saying exactly how she feels, that gets her in and out of trouble easily. But she is a true friend and Lucy and Angus will willingly attest to her loyalty.
When she loses her job as a flight attendant, she also dumps her cheating fiancé and heads back to school to earn her degree in viticulture. Lucy who was also a flight attendant, gets a settlement after an office accident and, starts her own business. Angus still flies the skies (for now) but will do anything to be there for both of them.
So, when it is time for Elle’s college internship, the 3 of them decide to take a wild drive up the California coastline, Hwy 1, before settling in to intern with Jude, a winemaker, in Sonoma (CA). Along the way Elle finds a kitten she names Luis, and also learns what is really going on with Lucy. (No spoilers from me.)
For readers, pages will turn as they follow Elle, Lucy and Angus, and the many other well-developed characters, through travel and business adventures; and, relationship dynamics and health challenges.
How will the best friends be able to navigate these changes? What new futures can they look forward to for themselves and those they connect with along the way?
This is an easy-to-read, page-turner with some laugh-out-loud humorous moments. It also includes flawed, but quirky characters that will take readers on an emotional, sometimes whip-fast rollercoaster ride.
The story sometimes flips back in forth in time without notice, which may at times be confusing for the reader. But those flips also help to provide insights into the characters and their motivations.
Mostly, this is a heart-felt story of enduring friendship, family, finding oneself, grief and loss, vulnerability, and love in all its many forms. There may be some Kleenex moments.
I want to thank the author for this complimentary debut novel for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
I originally heard about this children’s book author/illustrator when I discovered his book, “The Yellow Bus” which I recently reviewed here: https://I originally heard about this children’s book author/illustrator when I discovered his book, “The Yellow Bus” which I recently reviewed here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
And, then Goodreads friend, Darla mentioned to me that she had met the author when she read his book, “Otis and the Kittens.” Well, having absolutely loved “The Yellow Bus” how could I not be up for a book about kittens. Besides, I was curious about who or what could Otis possibly be?
“For the brave who run toward danger instead of away.”
That quote is what greeted me when I first opened the pages. My husband and I had just got back from our morning walk with Oliver and Oscar, our two cardigan corgis. We had been feeling particularly low in energy from all the recent political turmoil in the United States, and trying to figure out how we could keep our moods upbeat and positive during such tumultuous times. With all that is going on, do we run towards danger instead of away? Or do we hide away and hope it doesn’t hurt us?
Well, one way is to stick my nose in a book like this one. To teach about working well with others and what it takes to look out for those who are in need.
So, what do you think happens in this cute little story?
Let’s meet Otis first. He is a tractor. That works the fields on the farm. With the other farm animals. And, one day Otis saw a cat running to the burning barn frantic. So, Otis raced to see what was the matter. And, before you know it, Otis is running into the burning barn, and then, coming out of the barn with a lot of kittens on his back.
But even if he could save all the kittens, could he save himself?
Never fear, all the farm animals love Otis. Will they do what they can to save him? (No spoilers from me.)
Keep in mind the quote at the beginning of this review and see what a great teacher it can be for the classroom and parents with their kids.
Reading Level: Age 4 – 8 years – Preschool – 3rd Grade
Special Note: The author has a complete series of beautifully illustrated Otis books – Otis, Otis and the Tornado, Otis and the Puppy, Otis and the Scarecrow, Otis Loves to Play, and An Otis Christmas. This is my first Otis book! ...more
I remember reading this book a while ago, and also seeing a movie that highlighted this story, as well. But I believe the movie rendition Catching Up…
I remember reading this book a while ago, and also seeing a movie that highlighted this story, as well. But I believe the movie rendition of the story was more about the dog, Togo, and his beginnings, and how he came to be a part of this story.
The title of this book is an understatement. Especially as children were dying of diphtheria in 1925 in the small town of Nome, Alaska. It was evident that they were in need of the medicine quickly, before an outbreak would devastate the community.
And, their only hope were the amazing huskies that could race against the grueling miles and horrific weather conditions to get the serum to the children.
This is the story of the dog relays that took on the important mission of enduring temperatures of 62 below to get this medication to save Nome – the community and mostly the children.
There is so much to appreciate about the bravery of the men who led the dogs, besides the courageous effort of the lead dogs, Balto and Togo. Although, controversially, it would be Balto that would be getting more credit, through publicity, movie deals, and his own statue. It would be later learned, that Togo was the one that deserved the most credit for his heroic lead efforts.
This is a must read with great historical value. Although there will be hard parts to read, about the children and about the dogs in harrowing conditions, the story is thoughtful in its telling....more
