A Dog's Life

Squirrel, born a stray dog, learns the hard way about survival. Starting from Squirrel's older years and looking back, Martin allows the reader to listen with concern, but not fear, as Squirrel tells of her life from stray puppy to well-loved pet. Wendy Dillon gives all the characters individual voices, which accurately portray George's impatience, Marcy's bewilderment, and Susan's kindness. Squirrel's voice is exceptional; it is clearly that of an older, experienced dog--husky and warm, steady and calm--and Dillon paces it slowly to enhance the sense of age, patience, and wisdom. The nuances in her voice create images that range from carefree to bittersweet. Squirrel's life story is told with acceptance and a poignant grace. W.L.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

February 1, 2006
Gr 4-6 -This is Ann Martin -s first person account of life as a stray dog (Scholastic, 2005). Squirrel and her brother Bone are pups living in a country estate -s garden shed. When their mother fails to return one day, Squirrel follows her brother to look for a new home. Mother had taught them basic survival skills -to hunt for food and beware of humans. On the road, they learn another life lesson -to be wary of highways with cars. Squirrel and Bone become separated, so Squirrel moves on alone. She befriends Moon, another stray. The two dogs watch out for each other, changing homes with the changing seasons. A fatal car accident separates the two. Squirrel again sets out again on her own, employing survival skills until she meets a woman named Susan and finds a stable home. Wendy Dillon -s warm, calm voice is the perfect match to tell the tale of the experience-worn Squirrel. She adds nuances of pitch and tension to her voice when reading the few passages of dialogue. This story begs to be listened to multiple times. A good choice for animal lovers. -"Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.