Forward, Shakespeare! (Orca Young Readers). Jean Little. Illustrated by Hanne Lore Koehler. Victoria, BC: Orca, 2005. 100 pp., pbk., $7.95. ISBN 1-55143-339-7. Subject Heading: Guard Dogs-Juvenile fiction. Grades 2-4 / Ages 7-9. Review by Janice Foster. *** ˝ /4

excerpt:

The first two lanes were clear and so he walked on without any correction from Tim. Then a car came up behind them, and Shakespeare heard his master give a horrified gasp. Well, it was too late to turn back. Young man and dog marched on.

Then Shakespeare spotted a large truck bearing down on them. It was time to jump, fast. If only Tim kept his cool and trusted his dog.

Young readers who enjoyed Jean Little's Rescue Pup will be captivated by the further adventures of Shakespeare, a young Seeing Eye dog. This sequel, Forward, Shakespeare!, begins with Shakespeare returning to the Seeing Eye training school to be partnered with a high school boy who has recently become blind. The real life experiences with her own three Seeing Eye dogs enables Jean Little, a favourite Canadian children's author, to capture the emotions experienced by Tim as he learns to trust his new canine companion and begins to regain his independence. Shakespeare's ability to "understand Human" adds a human quality that enables young readers to easily connect with his character.

     Forward, Shakespeare! is another “Orca Young Readers” chapter book. With its age-appropriate plot, clear narrative accompanied by informal dialogue and the inclusion of several black and white illustrations, this book will easily appeal to young readers. The story's emphasis on relationships and their development makes Forward, Shakespeare! more than merely an engaging story. Tim's relationship with his guide dog and with his family reveals the challenges young people such as Tim face in dealing with a disability.

Highly Recommended.

Janice Foster is a teacher librarian in the Pembina Trails School Division in Winnipeg, MB.

To comment on this title or this review, send mail to cm@umanitoba.ca.

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Published by The Manitoba Library Association ISSN 1201-9364

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