Back of Book:
In 1962 a stray dog was found under a pile of boxes in a Coast Guard warehouse in what used to be called Government Island, the Coast Guard Base in San Francisco Bay, when a seaman named Dave Bunch was mopping the floor. It was love at first sight. At first the men decided to hide the pup from the Commander, thinking she wouldn’t be allowed. But soon enough all of the men in the barracks fell hard for the little dog. Then one day when high waves challenged another vessel at sea, it was Vera’s fierce determination and natural swimming ability that brought the life preserver and safety line to the sinking boat. Vera became a hero and the beloved pet and mascot of the San Francisco Coast Guard.
My Review:
Patricia Polacco wrote another terrific story about the real people in her life. One of the reasons why I love Patricia’s stories is because they are easy to relate to. The story of Vera is a beautiful tribute to such an amazing dog. I have never read a picture book that discussed the Coast Guard. I found the story truly touching and emotional. Readers will cheer and cry with Vera as she saves lives and changes even the toughest of men. The illustrations are beautiful and show readers the spunky little dog that changed so many people. The end of the book has a note from Patricia about the journey she took to tell the story of Vera. This is another fantastic addition to any nonfiction reading list.
Ages 6 and up
32 Pages
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