Odin, Dog Hero of the Fires

May 1, 2020
A resourceful ranch dog protects a herd of goats during a wildfire in Northern California. A Great Pyrenees dog named Odin narrates this dramatic story based on true events. The dog relates the harrowing tale in first-person present tense, adding dramatic suspense as the plot unfolds. As a fast-moving wildfire approaches, the two owners of a ranch decide to flee. They leave in their truck with only one of their dogs after Odin refuses to get in. He stays behind with a herd of eight young goats, saving their lives by leading them to the shelter of some boulders on a hill. When one of the dog's owners returns the next day, he finds Odin, all the goats, and two fawns safe near the rocks, though the farmhouse and barn have been burned to the ground. The illustrations are uncompelling in execution and composition, with the animals often portrayed in static poses. The scenes of the nighttime fire and the hazy, gray day that follows, however, project a dreamlike effect that in combination with the posed animals conveys the nightmarish quality of the wildfire and its aftermath. An author's note describes the owners of the ranch, who present white, and the circumstances of the actual fire. A final page gives information about Great Pyrenees dogs. An entertaining story of a dog's brave behavior in a devastating wildfire. (Picture book. 5-8)

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June 1, 2020

Gr 2-5-During the 2017 California wildfires, a family had to leave their farm. Odin, their Great Pyrenees dog, refused to leave the property or the goats he was charged with guarding. Despite their pleas, Odin would not get into the truck, and they had to drive away without him, tearful and certain they would never see him again. Somehow, Odin survived the fire with his herd. When the family returned to evaluate their property, Odin was waiting, wagging his tail with excitement. Told from Odin's point of view, this true story is a heartwarming tale of survival against all odds as well as a wonderful lesson about responsibility and perseverance. Salazar's soft illustrations are lifelike. Parents and educators should note that the text does not provide any guidance or reminders to youngsters about the importance of following instructions from adults during fires or other emergencies. VERDICT Highly recommended for all children's library collections, especially where dog books are in high demand and where wildfires are prevalent.-Kate Olson, Bangor Sch. Dist., WI

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