This action—packed and heartwarming story of a dog in World War I is the first book in an exciting new series.
At home in England, Darling is the mischievous but much—loved pet of Robert and Katherine. But when the British military asks families to volunteer their dogs to help the war effort, they send Darling off to be trained, even though it is very hard to say goodbye. Darling goes through training along with many other dogs and is ultimately used as a mercy dog, seeking out injured soldiers on the battlefield and leading the medics to them. After saving the lives of numerous soldiers, Darling is faced with a major challenge.
Alison Hart is the author of more than forty books for young readers, including Emma's River, Anna's Blizzard, and the Racing to Freedom trilogy. Hart is a teacher at Blue Ridge Community College and lives in Virginia.
Michael G. Montgomery has illustrated numerous children's books. He attended Georgia Southern University and the University of Georgia. Montgomery lives in Georgia.
"Descriptions of life on the Belgian front carry weight. Montgomery's soft pencil drawings reinforce the affection between Darling and her handlers, and back matter offers additional facts about WWI and military dogs." —Publishers Weekly
"The simple narrative is detailed but never graphic... While never shying away from the tragedies of battle, Darling's story focuses on bravery, sacrifice and devotion. Finely detailed pencil sketches and an afterword explaining the history behind the story are included. Wartime adventure with plenty of heart." —Kirkus
"Darling is a well—told, fast—paced and touching story that vividly depicts battlefield conditions in World War I." —Richmond—Times
"The pencil drawing illustrations fit in nicely with the text. Darling is an amazing dog who never forgot about the two children she loved, and who loved her. This historical fiction book should be on every required reading list for kids age eight and up." —Kid Lit Reviews
"In addition to all the satisfying action and adventure they'll find in the book, kids will be drawn into the story because of several meaningful relationships detailed." —Good Reads with Ronna
Leveling Information
Accelerated Reader
AR Quiz#: 162911
AR Reading Level: 4.9
AR Points: 3
F&P (Fountas & Pinnell)
F&P Level: R
F&P Grade: 4
Reading Counts
Reading Counts Level: 3.8
Reading Counts Points: 7
Reading Counts Interest Level: 3—5
Updates Available: Updates Available: Update available for Picture Gallery Module