The Guardian Team: On the Job with Rena and Roo

Gr 1-3--Caution: This book may cause the warm-fuzzies. Orphaned wild burro Roo and litter-runt puppy Rena become livestock guardians and, eventually, friends on the author's ranch. They are initially paired to protect lamb orphans from predators. Youthful, mutual wariness eventually unfolds into friendship between the two. In the meantime, their work is displayed in words and pictures. Roo is shown in a stare-down with a distrusted ram, keeping him from her flock. Rena sniffs inquisitively and lovingly at her charges. Lambs go about their adorable lamby business. Heartwarming photos and clear, accessible text combine to make this story a winner. Display this book with Jon Katz's Meet the Dogs of Bedlam Farm (Holt, 2011), another fine, nonfiction photo-fest of working farm animals. The Guardian Team is perfect for classroom--and family--reading time. Lovely.--Anne Chapman Callaghan, Racine Public Library, WI

Copyright 2011 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

"This snapshot of animal dynamics presents a rugged picture of one surprising friendship." —Kirkus Reviews

"Heartwarming photos and clear, accessible text combine to make this story a winner. . . . Perfect for classroom-and family-reading time. Lovely." —School Library Journal

"A companion title to Brave Dogs, Gentle Dogs (2005). . . . Kids will be drawn by the immediate, cuddly drama that blends work and play, biology, and an affectionate pet story." —Booklist