Duke by Kirby Larson

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About the book:  A poignant World War II story about a boy and his dog and his dad, and the many meanings of bravery, from Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson.

With World War II raging and his father fighting overseas in Europe, eleven-year-old Hobie Hanson is determined to do his part to help his family and his country, even if it means giving up his beloved German shepherd, Duke. Hoping to help end the war and bring his dad home faster, Hobie decides to donate Duke to Dogs for Defense, an organization that urges Americans to lend their pets to the military to act as sentries, mine sniffers, and patrol dogs. Hobie immediately regrets his decision and tries everything he can to get Duke back, even jeopardizing his friendship with the new boy at school. But when his father is taken prisoner by the Germans, Hobie realizes he must let Duke go and reach deep within himself to be brave. Will Hobie ever see Duke, or his father, again?

With powerful storytelling and gripping emotion, critically acclaimed author Kirby Larson explores the many ways bravery and love help us to weather the most difficult times.

Review: The book, Duke, is about a little boy, his dog, and his dad. His dad was leaving to go fight in WWII.  He encouraged his son to be brave and get ready for anything.

Hobie wanted to help do whatever he could to make the war end as quick as it could. So he decided to give his dog to "Dogs for Defense."  He regretted donating him until he learned his father had been taken prisoner by the Germans. Hobie realized he had to be brave. (student review)

DISCLOSURE: A complimentary copy of Duke was given to us in exchange for our honest review. Opinions are the reviewers. No compensation was received for this review.