The Newfoundland Book

Introduces the history, development, uses, and care of this dog breed, known for lifesaving and search-and-rescue work.

VOYA

The titles in the Learning about Dogs series begin with a Quick Facts section listing the description, development, and uses of the breed, followed by an expanded discussion of the history of the breed, what the dog was originally bred to do, and how the dog is used today. We learn, for example, that Newfoundlands assist in water rescue and Shetland Sheepdogs might be employed as herd dogs. Readers learn what it is like to live with each typeNewfoundlands shed, Shetland Sheepdogs can be wary of strangers, and Chihuahuas usually like children but not other dogs. Each breed needs to be groomed, fed, and exercised properly. Wilcox also includes addresses for the breed clubs in the United States and in Canada, including the American Kennel Club and the Canadian Kennel Club. The further reading list is useful, and a list of related Web sites is included. The photographs are all of excellent quality and look natural rather than posed, showing the spirit of each breed. Each series title also includes a brief overview on the general history of dogs. Elements, such as glossaries and indexes, familiarize challenged readers with standard nonfiction formats. This series, designed for high/low readers, uses simple sentence structure and repetition and would be useful for preparing reports, researching the history of dog breeds, or gathering information before adding a family dog. Others titles include Beagle, Bulldog, Cocker Spaniel, Chihuahua, and Shetland Sheep Dog. VOYA CODES: 4Q 3P M J (Better than most, marred only by occasional lapses; Will appeal with pushing; Middle School, defined as grades 6 to 8; Junior High, defined as grades 7 to 9). 1999, High Low Books/Capstone Press, Ages 12to15, 48p. PLB $19. Reviewer: Ann Bouricius