Hoping to help end the war and bring his dad home faster, Hobie decides to donate Duke to Dogs for Defense, an organization that urges Americans to 'loan' their pets to the military to act as sentries, mine sniffers, and patrol dogs. With World War II raging and his father fighting overseas in Europe, eleven-year-old Hobie Hanson is determined to do his part to help his family and his country, even if it means giving up his beloved German shepherd, Duke.

I would recommend this for all ages, and EVERYONE should read this amazing story.A poignant World War II story about a boy and his dog and his dad, and the many meanings of bravery, from Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson. It is really vivid and a movie was always forming through my head as I read the book. Review: I would definitely rate this book a 10/10. You will have to read this book to find out. Marv yelled everyone to get to cover, seeing that Duke was barking, soon after a spray of bullets passed over Marv’s and Duke’s heads… Did the hit Duke and Marv? Did they live? Did Hobie ever get to see his best friend ever again? Marv’s general said “all clear,” Duke’s ears perked up and he suddenly started barking, and that day Duke saved the life’s of many people. Marv consistently sends letters to Hobie until there is a sudden break… After a long wait Hobie gets a letter saying that when Sarg. Hobie is now more happy knowing that his friend is safe.Įver since the first letter, Sarg. After couple of weeks, he gets a letter from Sargent Marv saying that Duke is happy, and he is having a fun time training and learning new skills. When Duke leaves, Hobie and his family is struck with sadness. After a long time thinking, Hobie agrees as long as he would get his best friend back as soon as possible. Mr.R’s dog, Ludwig, was going to go into war and Mr.R asks Hobie if he wants to lend Duke to the marines.

His name was Mr.Rasmussen, he works for “Dogs for defense.” After Hobie shows the man how Duke can do great tricks, Mr.R gives Hobie his card. When Hobie rides home one day with Duke running along he meets a man. Whenever Hobie goes for a ride on his bike, Duke, the German shepherd, comes along. Hobie Hanson is a boy in Seattle who owns a German shepherd who is very well trained and has great agility. Both sides needed help from their home country as much as they needed each other. The year is 1944, the world is at war… Americans vs. The book Duke by Newbery Honor winning author, Kirby Larson, just came out in bookstores everywhere.

Duke by kirby larson