“This is supposed to be a kids’ book?” I thought as I found myself quickly emotionally invested in this story of a circus dog and his monkey companion caught in the terror and chaos of World War II.
Frightened and suddenly alone, the animals attach themselves to the first human they recognize, and that starts off a deeply satisfying tale that moves from the beaches of Dunkirk to naval convoy escorts and then to shell-shocked citizens of the Battle of Britain.
Along the way, the animals (mostly the dog) befriend and connect three very different people that beautifully pays off in the end.
The author (who also wrote “The Incredible Journey”) deeply respects her animal and human characters, never using them as emotional props but instead gives them dignity and ties their lives together in an edifying tapestry. That respect also applies to her readers, who she thought either could (or should) handle heavy themes.
I highly recommend this story if you’re looking for a fast read that both captivates and moves you.
Score: 4 / 5 stars
Two notes: I highly recommend the audiobook version read by Flo Gibson for Recorded Books; it’s like having your grandma read you a bedtime story. Parents, you may want to read this before giving it to your kids to gauge their readiness for intense themes and some language.
Bel Ria by Sheila Burnford (Book Review)