Liberty (Dogs of World War II)

Liberty (Dogs of World War II)

From Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson comes the moving story of a young boy who, with a dad fighting in Europe and a sister working at the Higgins Boat factory, longs to have a dog of his own. Fish has a knack for inventing. His annoying neighbor, Olympia, has a knack for messing things up. But when his latest invention leads Fish to Liberty, a beautiful stray dog who needs a home, he and Olympia work together to rescue her. However, a friendship that crosses racial lines is not the norm in 1940s New Orleans. But at the Higgins boatyard, where the boats that just might save the Allied forces during World War II are built, the wartime workforce is integrated and includes women and the disabled. Fish, who suffered from polio and whose dad is away fighting in Europe, looks up to Mr. Higgins, and he's thrilled when one of his inventions helps Mr. Higgins's engineers unlock the mechanics of the landing crafts. Mr. Higgins inspires him to be bold and brave. As Fish enlists the help of unexpected friends and allies to save Liberty, he finds his perceptions of the world -- of race and war, family and friendship -- transformed. Gr 3–6—A tale of determination set in World War II-era New Orleans. Fish Elliott dreams of being an inventor, but that sometimes seems out of reach for a kid who lost his mother at birth, has had polio, and lives with his sister while his dad is fighting overseas. Fish's latest invention not only brings him to the attention of a prominent local businessman, it leads him to a stray dog that needs a home. Fish works with his friend and neighbor Olympia to rescue the dog, whom Fish names Liberty, and discover what being brave is all about. Although this may seem like a simple "boy and his dog" story at first glance, it takes on a number of deeper issues. Olympia is African American, and her friendship with Fish is atypical for the 1940s setting. Fish witnesses some of the racism of his neighbors (albeit from a distance) and shows some insight when he takes Olympia to an event and realizes how uncomfortable it must be for her to be one of the very few nonwhite people there. The war is ever present in the narrative, with nearly every family having someone serving, in training, or working in a new role on the home front. Larson also weaves in a parallel plotline about a young German prisoner of war who ends up in a prison camp in New Orleans and then encounters Fish and Olympia. VERDICT A slice-of-life tale for historical fiction fans and animal lovers alike. Recommended for school and public libraries.—Heather Webb, Worthington Libraries, OH Praise for Liberty : * "Larson once again creates an engaging story that is rich in historical details. She purposefully captures both the fear and the hope in a world torn by war as well as the simple love of a boy for his dog. Practically perfect." -- Kirkus Reviews , starred review"A slice-of-life tale for historical fiction fans and animal lovers alike." -- School Library Journal "Larson brings the historical setting to life with vivid details and draws readers into the story with a heartfelt dog-and-child relationship." -- Hornbook Praise for Dash : Winner of the Scott O'Dell Award for Historical FictionA Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year*"Emotionally satisfying and thought-provoking." -- Kirkus Reviews , starred review*"[A] trenchant novel." -- Publishers Weekly , starred review"Historical fiction at its best." -- School Library Journal Praise for Duke : *"Exceptionally well-crafted and emotionally authentic." -- Kirkus Reviews , starred review*"[An] incisive tale of loyalty, patriotism, sacrifice, and bravery." -- Publishers Weekly , starred review"A good example of how bravery comes in all shapes, sizes -- and breeds." -- Booklist Praise for Audacity Jones to the Rescue : *"Larson's thriller deftly mixes humor, heart-pounding moments, and a strongly evoked historical setting -- it's truly a story with something for everyone." -- Publishers Weekly , starred review*"[T]he story's themes of trust, friendship, and good manners will resonate with many. Audacity's charm and smarts make this historical adventure a winner." -- Booklist , starred review"Larson infuses her romp with plenty of humor, making Audacity, her cat, and friends into lively, likable characters. With characteristic deftness, she weaves her historical material seamlessly into the story; Audacity is a modern girl.... Clever, funny, and sweet in equal measures." -- Kirkus Reviews "Readers will cheer Audacity's ingenuity and bravery as they relish every moment of her adventures. Highly recommended." -- School Library Journal Praise for Hattie Big Sky : A Newbery Honor Recipient*"[An] engaging historical novel... [Larson] creates a richly textured novel full of memorable characters." -- Booklist , starred review*"Larson... create[s] a masterful picture of the homesteading experience and the people who persevered." -- School Library Journal , starred review"Refreshing