The Poet’s Dog
Patricia MacLachlan, Author
Katherine Tegen Books, Fiction, Sep. 13, 2016
Suitable for Ages: 6-10, Grades 1-5
Pages: 88
Themes: Dog, Lost children, Winter storm, Love, Loss, Friendship
Opening: “I found the boy at dusk. The blizzard was fierce, and it would soon be dark. I could barely see him with the snow blowing sideways. He stood at the edge of the icy pond, shivering.”
Publisher Synopsis: Teddy is a gifted dog. Raised in a cabin by a poet named Sylvan, he grew up listening to sonnets read aloud and the comforting clicking of a keyboard. Although Teddy understands words, Sylvan always told him there are only two kinds of people in the world who can hear Teddy speak: poets and children.
Then one day Teddy learns that Sylvan was right. When Teddy finds Nickel and Flora trapped in a snowstorm, he tells them that he will bring them home—and they understand him. The children are afraid of the howling wind, but not of Teddy’s words. They follow him to a cabin in the woods, where the dog used to live with Sylvan . . . only now his owner is gone.
As they hole up in the cabin for shelter, Teddy is flooded with memories of Sylvan. What will Teddy do when his new friends go home? Can they help one another find what they have lost?
Why I like this book:
Patricia MacLachlan’s book is a magical tale that will warm the hearts of readers from the first page. It is a story about Nickel and Flora, who are rescued during a storm by Teddy, an Irish wolfhound. It is quiet and cozy story about how they help each other survive loss and find love.
The prose is lyrical and simple for older elementary children. The chapters are short. The beautiful narrative is in Teddy’s voice, as we learn about his great love for his master, Sylvan, who has died. Teddy is in mourning and sleeps in the barn until he finds Nickel and Flora and takes them to Sylvan’s cabin. Nickel is a protective older brother. He takes care of the firewood, shovels snow paths and goes outside with Teddy to the barn. Nora takes over the food preparation with food is stocked in the cabin. They enjoy being on their own with Teddy in the cabin. It becomes an adventure. And their presence helps Teddy deal with his loss as he shares his beautiful memories of Sylvan and their relationship. The plot and the pacing are perfect for the age group. The message is a bit complex for young children. The ending is satisfying and uplifting.
This is an endearing read from a wonderful storyteller. Parents will enjoy reading The Poet’s Dog to younger children. However, older children will be able to read it on their own. This is a book worth reading for both young and old alike.
Check other Middle Grade review links on author Shannon Messenger’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday post.
This sounds like a lovely book, Patricia. I’ll have to look out for it. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLike
This is a really beautifully written story by Patricia MacLachlan! Adults will enjoy its quiet beauty.
LikeLike
This sounds like such a lovely book & heartwarming tale. I just love the thought of a dog’s voice being heard only by children & poets. Thanks so much for sharing!
LikeLike
Yes, the dog’s voice is definitely what makes this story. It is such a beautiful story with the dog dealing with loss.
LikeLike
I hadn’t heard of this one before, but it sounds so interesting and sweet. It looks like it’s got lovely illustrations, too. As always, thanks for sharing!
LikeLike
It is a book to cuddle up with. This book will be one I give as a Christmas gift. So beautiful!
LikeLike
This does sound like a great read aloud with some quiet lessons of acceptance. I’ll be on the look out for this beautiful sounding tale. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLike
I know you would enjoy MacLachlan’s beautiful language and lyrical writing. This quiet story is heartwarming.
LikeLike
It sounds absolutely beautiful!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Beleyne, you would really love this book. It is so satisfying and the perfect snowy day read!
LikeLike
Patricia, I don’t know how you manage to read so many books, but thank you for sharing so many treasures!
LikeLike
Patricia MacLachlan is one of my favorite children’s author. You can’t go wrong with anything she writes. This book is heartwarming!
LikeLike
I love this book as well, for all the reasons you mentioned. It has such an old-fashioned feel to it and is enchanting.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I’m so glad to hear that you enjoyed MacLachlan’s book as much as I did. It does have an old-fashioned feel to it. As a kid, I would have loved being in a situation similar to this!
LikeLike
Thank you for a review from one of my all-time favorite authors! Can’t wait to read this!!
LikeLiked by 1 person
She is one of my favorite authors too. You will love her recent offering. Good for a cold day.
LikeLike
Pat, I think this is just the sort of wonderful message I need right now. Thank you.
LikeLike
You know, I felt the same way. It is very uplifting. It’s a quick read and I think you’d enjoy MacLachlan’s style. Love her books!
LikeLike
This sounds like a wonderful read. Is it a chapter book? Kids (and many adults) can relate to dogs.
LikeLike
It’s a chapter book, but would be a good book for reluctant readers. Adults will enjoy the story too! I know I did!
LikeLike
I hope our library gets this book in. I would so love to read this. It’s right up my ally. Thanks for sharing.
LikeLike
Yes, I know you’d love this story. I love MacLachlan’s novels. Thought about you when I heard about the latest earthquake.
LikeLike
Oh, this one sounds great. I love books where kids have to be in charge of taking care of themselves during a snowstorm of other natural disaster!
LikeLike
I would have loved being this these kids shoes fending for myself. That’s why I’m glad the author didn’t name the kids. It allows kids to imagine!
LikeLike
This book sounds fabulous. I really like the cover. 🙂
LikeLike
Yes, the cover immediately draws you to the story. Kept thinking about the Boxcar Children being on their own as I read this story. Such a lovely, poetic story.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Patricia, I enjoyed reading your review! It sounds like a very nice book. I’ve always loved Patricia McLaughlin’s work ever since I read Sarah Plain and Tall.
All the best,
Rukhsana
LikeLiked by 1 person
Yes, I love Patricia MacLachlan’s novels too. They are always so beautiful and perfect for young readers. This one is especially inspiring.
Still can’t access you. You left a comment, but didn’t “like” the post where I can click on your blog and bring it into my reader. And, you signed in with FB. But, I will not give up.
LikeLike