What is it about dog books that warm up people's hearts? Especially more so when written from the point of view of the dogs themselves.
In Bark Up the Right Tree, our narrator is a very special rescue black labrador named Jessie. After living in a household where one of the children was abusive to Jessie, the elderly dog ends up in a shelter and eventually in a rescue. Day after day, he prays for the right person who will come and adopt him, prays for a loving, caring home. Then, under strange circumstances that can be only attributed to Fate, Ruth, a senior citizen who was in search of a dog exactly like Jessie, takes him into her heart and into her life. Together they do marvelous work with children.
In the book, Jessie tells his story from his own perspective--a perspective that is insightful and infinitely kind. From the time he was sad and forlorn, to the time he turned the happiest dog in the world, Jessie's adventure is one that will move readers' hearts.
The evaluation:
Written in short chapters and in simple language, this is a little book that can be read in an hour or two. The style and language are appropriate for children and in fact this would make a lovely chapter book to read to kids at bedtime. Each chapter teaches a different but important lesson; at the same time, the style isn't preachy. This is an enjoyable story and will bring readers closer to the heart of dogs, to their feelings and intelligence. Important to note is the fact that the author is donating 100% of proceeds of the special charity edition of the book to Open Doors, an Amazing Grace Foundation.
About the authors:
Jessie Tschudin is a mature black Labrador Retriever who has found a new home and mission in life. She enjoys people of all ages, going on long walks, and getting belly rubs. Her dream is that all children and animals in need of loving homes will be as blessed as she has been. She writes a free inspirational 'Woof-a-Week' commentary and looks forward to promoting the big, first-of-its-kind 'Dog Festfund’raiser that will involve non-profit organizations related to Jessie’s mission.
Ruth Tschudin is a former teacher and author of “Educator’s Deskbook of Ideas and Activities from Award-Winning Teachers” (Parker/Prentice Hall 1980), which is based on her own survey of outstanding teachers. Her “landmark study” was featured in Instructor Magazine and discussed on the Today Show with Tom Brokaw.
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