Dogs

October 1, 2017

Gr 5-8-How did wolves evolve into the dogs we know and love? Why are canines so varied compared with other species? How do dogs perceive the world? Narrated by Rudy, a chirpy, bandana-wearing pooch, this work of graphic nonfiction takes a deep dive into the world of canines. The jokes and sunny cartoon illustrations featuring tongue-lolling dogs will entice elementary school students. However, the challenging content and intricate sentence structure may stymie these readers. Most of the book is devoted to explaining canine evolution and genetics, including dominant and recessive traits, natural selection, and adaptation. Rudy also covers anatomy, behavior, and the development of breeds. Though the visuals clarify some of the more difficult points, the busy layouts full of text are daunting. The lengthy further reading list reflects Hirsch's meticulous research but contains only titles, articles, and websites that are aimed at adults. VERDICT Despite its youthful format, this volume is best suited for those with a basic grounding in biology. Middle schoolers seeking a user-friendly guide to read alongside their science textbooks may appreciate it.-Mahnaz Dar, School Library Journal

Copyright 2017 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

July 1, 2018
Man's best friend is discussed in this volume of a continuing series exploring science topics via graphic-novel format. The history, genetics, and behavior of dogs are all touched on. The brightly colored comic-book art has a lighthearted, sometimes even silly, style that manages not to bury the detailed science lessons. Reading list. Glos.

(Copyright 2018 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)

September 1, 2017
In-depth science about dogs is presented in a graphic-novel format in this latest Science Comics installment for middle graders. Rudy, the story's narrator, is an engaging mutt who loves to chase a ball. While at the dog park with his person, Rudy chases after a ball and goes back in time to "25,000 BP (before present)," when there were no dogs, only a wolflike ancestor. In this prehistory, Rudy introduces readers to the science of genetics and recessive and dominant traits as well as how they determine behavior and appearance. From genetics, Rudy delves into evolution and natural selection, explaining scientifically how dogs evolved from their wolflike ancestor. As the book continues, Rudy moves readers through time and geography while explaining dog physiology, the hows and whys of their behavior and communication, as well as artificial selection: the science of human-created dog breeds. The scope and depth of information is truly impressive and could be formidable, but the comic-book format keeps things on the accessible side as well as helping to illustrate more complex points. There is a glossary at the back for definitions, and scientific words are printed in boldface throughout. Thorough, clearly presented scientific information is lightened by silly asides from dog-narrator Rudy to keep readers entertained and engaged as they learn a huge amount about the science of dogs. (further reading) (Graphic nonfiction. 8-14)

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