History from a Dog's-Eye view

Any story with a dog is usually a hit for me, but what about a story told by a dog? That's a home run in my book, so I was thrilled when I found the Dog Chronicles, a series of middle readers by Alison Hart and illustrated by Michael Montgomery, published by Peachtree.

These books focus on exciting and often lesser known history that will pique the interest of readers 7-10 years of age. You can also find free teacher's guides at the link above. The following excerpts are from the Peachtree website:

Murphy: Gold Rush Dog

"Join Murphy as he finds a home with Sally and Mama, who have recently arrived in gold-rush era Alaska to seek a new life."

“Equal parts heart-wrenching and -warming…its message of the value of love over greed is as subtle as it is powerful. An adventure-filled tale set within a fascinating period of history.” ―Kirkus Reviews

You can find another great gold rush read in Jasper and the Riddle of Riley's Mine.

Finder: Coal Mine Dog

"When Thomas’s family needs money, he and his dog, Finder, are forced to go to work in the coal mines."

“Well-told and entertaining.” ―Kirkus Reviews

“Suspenseful.” ―Horn Book Guide

Darling: Mercy Dog of World War I


"When the British military asks families to volunteer their dogs to help the war effort, Darling’s family sends her off to be trained."

“While never shying away from the tragedies of battle, Darling’s story focuses on bravery, sacrifice and devotion….Wartime adventure with plenty of heart.” ―Kirkus Reviews

For more good dog stories, see Elizabeth Junner McLaughlin's post Dogs at War. 

Leo: Dog of the Sea

I missed the history of the spice trade when I was young. Considering how it changed the world, I was thrilled to find this reader.

"A hardened old sea dog joins Magellan on his journey to the Spice Islands in this action-packed and heartwarming story."

“Frank history, attention to factual detail, and vivid adventures make this a standout.” —Kirkus Reviews, STARRED REVIEW

Michele Hathaway is a writer and freelance editor. She has an M. A. in Social Anthropology and has worked in libraries in California, New Mexico, and Pennsylvania. She writes stories set in culturally diverse, historical and contemporary periods.

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