Working Like a Dog: The Story of Working Dogs Through History

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.

"A thoroughly researched and captivating offering.... The well-captioned...photographs and reproductions add greatly to a narrative that's packed with intriguing details.... Report writers will find a wealth of information here, and all readers will gain a strong appreciation for these four-legged wonders."
-School Library Journal

"As entertaining as it is informative...comprehensive....Kids will certainly enjoy...and be amazed..."
-Booklist

"Gorrell's lively prose and her enthusiastic affection for and appreciation of Canis familiaris makes this very thorough treatise on the dog a pleasure for both those who share Gorrell's interest and those for whom the world of canids is terra nova."
-The Globe and Mail

..".compelling.... [I]nformation is presented in a very readable, accessible manner.... Dog lovers and history buffs alike will enjoy this impeccably well researched and entertaining book. Highly Recommended."
-CM Magazine

..".fascinating and comprehensive..."
-Resource Links

"Gorrell has created a splendid, in-depth book in which even the most fanatical dog lover will discover something new. It's the perfect book for any dog-mad preteen."
-Quill and Quire

"Fascinating! ...it is clear that Gorrell herself loves and appreciates our canine friends. Recommended for dog lovers..."
-Hi-Rise