A little boy does not feel that he is doing all that he can to help with the war efforts. He desperately wants his father to come home from the war. There is an internal conflict within the boy to enlist his dog or not. Ultimately he does.
This story I not one I would read in a classroom setting just for the fact that I cry very easily. In a classroom setting though I would ask the students what they would do in that situation but also do a comparison on how historically accurate it is.

A poignant, engaging historical novel exploring the themes of patriotism and sacrifice. ( )

My review refers to the audiobook version and appeared in the Oct/Nov, 2014 edition of AudioFile Magazine.

WWII rages, and Uncle Sam asks, “Are you doing all you can?" Fifth- grader Hobie Hanson desperately wants to help bring his father home from the war, but is he willing to enlist his German shepherd, Duke, in the Dogs for Defense program? As Hobie, narrator Jonah Von Spreecken has an earnestness in his voice that fits this singular period in history when so many Americans were compelled to answer the call of duty to their country. He creates distinct voices for each of the story's many characters, and even does a passing job as Hobie's little sister. Von Spreecken is faithful to the period dialogue, easily transporting the listener to a simpler time in this novel of courage, sacrifice, and a beloved dog. Semper fi. L.T. © AudioFile 2014, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2014] ( )

Perfect book for those boys that you know, 3rd/4th/5th grade who want to read books about war, fighting, and other "tough guy" themes. Told from the perspective of a boy who loans his German shepherd for the war effort, this book gives readers a birds eye view of war, from the homefront. Enjoyable and interesting. ( )