Title: The Duck Dog Adventure
Author: Florence M. Coleman, M.Ed., M.Div.
Publisher: Writers’ Branding
ISBN: 979-8895315231
Pages: 30
Genre: Illustrated Children’s Book / Education
Reviewer: Beth Adams
Pacific Book Review
In this enjoyable illustrated story, readers are introduced to Orion, described as a bouncy black Labrador retriever along with Sarah, the dog’s human partner. The duo ventures out to a pond in the woods where ducks gather and hide out in a blind to watch the activities of the wildlife. It is there Sarah spots a few ducks winging, reaches for her shotgun, and shoots a duck in flight. As the duck falls into the water, Orion briskly runs out, jumps in the water, and with a soft mouth gathers the duck and brings it back to Sarah. She rewards Orion with lots of praise and affection, realizing her dog has become a duck dog!
Their day continues with many other ducks being hunted and gathered when the two decide to go back to the truck and go home. Along the way they are startled when some black bears appear in the berry bushes. Orion barks with an intent to inform the bears that we see you, and I will protect my human partner. That tense moment dissipates as the bears wander off and Orion and Sarah continue to their truck. This episode brings an unpredictable and exciting moment to the book, at first glance having the emotions of being frightened by the bears turning into a realization that having a partner and teamwork is good to overcome many situations.
The illustrations have a crayon style with earth-tone colors, which provide the perfect eye-candy for children paging this book with their parents or on their own. The activity of duck hunting interestingly suggests how food is gathered and does not dwell on the violence of the hunt but rather the reaping the rewards of obtaining food. The ending showcases a poem by the author which is quite inspirational.
The Duck Dog Adventure is a book which will be enjoyed by children seeking a story combining being outdoors, hunting, dog companionship, elements of danger, and ultimately an overall sense of accomplishment achieved by the synergy of a human-canine relationship. Dogs have been a major component in human hunting techniques, and even the Labrador’s soft-mouth is often called a “duck-mouth” meaning it won’t blemish the prey.
Florence M. Coleman has created a story which demonstrates her skill in communicating with youngsters, and this book educates while it entertains – which is exactly what a book of this genre is intended to achieve. Through every twist and turn, readers will discover the power of friendship and working together. Perfect for bedtime reading or classroom story time, The Duck Dog Adventure is sure to become a family favorite.
