 |
Bruno is an energetic, friendly black labrador that lives on a farm with his human family—Ray and Susie and two cats named Trouble and Cattail. Bruno's responsibilities revolve around guarding the property at night, alerting the farmers if anyone drives up, and scaring away predators that might cause trouble. One day, while lying behind a pickup truck, Bruno is accidentally run over and becomes critical. The veterinarian informs Ray and Susie that if Bruno never walks again, he will not survive. With the help of the doctors giving him therapy and the love of his family, Bruno begins to walk again, though he no longer has control of his tail. Back on the farm, Bruno is overjoyed to see his loved ones again and resumes his otherwise idyllic life in the countryside.
There are numerous ways in which this book will delight and educate young readers at the same time. The massive and colorful full-page drawings of Bruno and his family capture the eye and fill the reader with joy. Meanwhile, the heartwarming tale of Bruno's determination and recovery offers a satisfying and pleasant storytelling experience. The author has also taken the extra effort to highlight words that may be challenging or new to children and clarifies them both in the story itself and in a glossary at the end of the book to reinforce the information. This tale is ideal for children interested in animals, farm life, or the way doctors and vets deal with injury and offers plenty of care and warmth that should appeal to every type of reader, whether young or old.