Swift

For as long as he could remember, Johnnie has longed to go off hunting with Pa and their dog, Swift. Now the much-anticipated day has arrived, but Johnnie's first hunt comes to an abrupt end when a grizzly bear attacks Pa, leaving him wounded and unable to walk. “Listen to the dog,” his father urges him as the boy starts out into the treacherous forest, led by the knowledgeable Swift, on a daring rescue mission to save his father.

More than a book about an Alaskan boy and his dog, Swift is a story of trust and courage, a perfect companion to Togo and Akiak.

Booklist

A riveting adventure story and a fine read-aloud choice, for older children, too. (Starred review)

Robert J. Blake lives in Nashville, Tennessee.