Pointers: Loyal Hunting Companions

Gr 4–7—Each title initially draws readers in with a story about a dog at work. From there, the straightforward (though somewhat dry) text relates information about its history and how readers can select, train, and care for their own hunting companion. Information about different breeds is presented via both text and tables, and most of the breeds are pictured. "Dog Fact" text boxes deliver additional facts (e.g., "Many retrievers work as guide dogs, police dogs, search and rescue dogs, or therapy dogs"), and the clear, color photos will appeal to animal lovers. New words are defined both in the glossary at the back of the book and in text boxes on the bottom of the pages. These volumes would be best for readers who want to know how to train a hunting dog; for more general information on dog breeds, direct readers to the publisher's "Edge Books: All About Dogs" or Lerner's "Best Dogs Ever" series.