Professional Review

Valerie F. Patterson, Queens Borough Public Library, NYCopyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

I found a further review from the School Library Journal. The review is from a librarian with an insight on what children typically check out. It states:

"Grade 1-3-- A young boy with muscular dystrophy goes to a special camp where
he is paired with an intelligent golden retriever who performs everyday
tasks that are too difficult for the physically challenged. They are leashed
together while the boy learns to give commands, and Buddy learns to obey.
When they leave camp, the dog is able to help his human friend dress, attend
school, shop, and play. Readers will benefit from this easy-to-read,
first-person narrative of an unusual friendship that also demonstrates the
desires of the handicapped to be independent and to be treated like everyone
else. Graceful watercolor illustrations that emphasize the closeness between
boy and dog are a perfect accompaniment to this entertaining and informative
book."

I chose this review for the simple reason that it would be something readers would be able to relate. A librarian knows what patrons want to read and they should know what the best books for the library are to have. I completely agree with the review in that it is an informative book for readers. It is difficult these days to find a book that is useful for readers while at the same time captures attention.