School Library Connection Magazine Review

August 22, 2019

Warren, Cat

What the Dog Knows: Scent, Science, and the Amazing Way Dogs Perceive the World

Illustrated by Patricia J. Wynne. 2019. 304pp. $17.99 hc. Simon & Schuster Children’s Publishing. 9781534428140. Grades 4-7

Author Cat Warren tells her story as the owner and handler of Solo, a cadaver dog, in this Young Readers edition of What the Dog Knows (Touchstone 2015).  The text is easy to follow with manageable chapter lengths.  Each chapter includes a variety of photos, charts, and sidebars.  Many chapters have clear breaking points, making this a nice choice for students to read in small or large chunks.  Lighthearted at times, but also chock-full of information, readers wishing to learn more can utilize the bibliography for additional resources.  The importance of basing the relationship between dog and handler on trust in order that the pair will succeed as a cohesive unit is strongly emphasized.   Special training of both the handler and the canine throughout their career together is underscored, as is the importance of being a member of a strong training team.  Technological replacements as well as their failures verify the importance of the working dog and balance out the narrative.  Various breeds and types of pup roles are discussed, such as cadaver (recent and historical), search and rescue, as well as police/military duties.  Both positive and negative real-life experiences will inspire some readers into handling or training careers.  These wonderful examples provide young readers with a solid grasp on necessary skills and job duties.  Middle-grade dog enthusiasts will love this fun and engaging title. Karen Gedeon, Middle School Media Specialist, Cuyahoga Falls (Ohio) City Schools

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