I remember the Christmas when I was around 5 years old that my parents got a pedal tractor for me, and a pedal fire truck for my slightly older brother. No contest. I quickly snatched the fire truck (it had a bell!) for myself. Little kids love the thought of being in charge and powerful—able to rescue puppies, people, and things. This list of titles will inspire them, and you.
HARASYMIW, M. Alexander. Pararescuemen. Gareth Stevens. 2012. ISBN 9781433965692. JLG Level: S35: Series Nonfiction: Social Studies (Grades 3-5)
Ever wonder what it takes to be a member of the U.S. Special Forces, diving into a wild ocean or jumping out of a plane in the middle of the wilderness? This title puts readers right into the middle of the action, explaining the vehicles, weapons, and rescue equipment used on missions. Fantastic photography and pull-out fact boxes make it good for browsing and enticing even the most reluctant reader. Includes index and glossary.
WHITE, Nancy. Police Officers to the Rescue. Bearport, 2011. ISBN 9781617722837. JLG Level: S35: Series Nonfiction: Social Studies (Grades 3-5)
As first responders, police officers are often called to perform diverse duties such as arresting felons or even delivering babies! Kids will learn about police work in emergencies, police training, and the role of officers in natural disasters and terrorist attacks. The book also includes a chapter on why people go into law enforcement. From the “Work of Heroes” series, this title includes a glossary, index, bibliography, and other additional resources.
MARKOVICS, Joyce L. Saving Animals After Earthquakes. Bearport. 2011. ISBN 9781617722899. JLG Level: S35: Series Nonfiction: Social Studies (Grades 3-5)
With compelling photography and gripping stories, this pick from the “Rescuing Animals from Disaster” series, will help youngsters discover what happens to animals that are left abandoned, injured, or lost after an earthquake. Using the 2010 earthquake that rocked Haiti as a jumping off point, the book covers rescue efforts and groups, largely volunteer that focus on just animals. Includes index, glossary, further readings, and website listing.
PATENT, Dorothy Hinshaw. Saving Audie: A Pit Bull Puppy Gets a Second Chance .illus. by William Muñoz. Walker. 2011. ISBN 9780802722737. JLG Level: I: Independent Readers (Grades 2-4).
You don’t have to be a dog lover to get completely drawn into Audie’s story. Formerly known as “Dog 86″ as part of NFL player Michael Vicks’ dog-fighting circuit, through love, training and patience, Audie was able to be rehabilitated and released for adoption. There’s lots of good information about the pit bull breed, animal rescue efforts, and the Vick case, along with a list of additional resources. Muñoz and Patent are a wonderful team, creating a photo-essay that is accessible to the youngest readers.
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About Dodie Ownes
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