BOOK REVIEWS
Reviews for Hickory Doc's Tales: The Pack: First Generation
Feathered Quill Reviews
Author Linda Harkey brings her experiences as a hunting dog owner to life in her book entitled Hickory Doc’s Tales (The Pack: First Generation). This story shares the adventures of a hunting dog named Doc and his family. Doc is a German shorthaired pointer, the oldest and wisest in his family, which also includes Zeke, Rush, Patch, Newt, Sadie, Rocky, and Deacon.
Doc and his family find themselves in some interesting situations, some of which include Zeke impulsively catching a skunk, Rush accidentally obtaining a mouth full of porcupine quills, and Doc giving in to temptation by eating his human’s meal of hamburgers, fries and salad, which subsequently leads to him being punished in more ways than one. Doc also successfully solves the mystery of what causes Sneezy the owl to constantly sneeze and consequently turn himself upside-down on his perch.
The escapades that Doc and his family find themselves in are frequently humorous and, more often than not, provide some example of a positive characteristic, such as resiliency, determination, and the strong bond of a family unit. These situations often require Doc and his family to solve a problem by working together. Once they have used teamwork to engineer a solution, the gratification and pride that they feel as a result is unmistakable.
A simple chapter book, Hickory Doc’s Tales is best suited for young readers ages 7 and up. The chapters are short and written in easily understood prose for those readers who are just beginning to read chapter books. Kids will appreciate the fun and often quirky chapter titles and subheadings found throughout the story.
While this is a chapter book, the author did include some illustrations scattered throughout the book. Adding these illustrations is a definite method of attracting the interest of young readers who are transitioning from full picture books to books with more text.
The author wrote this book from the point of view of Doc, the hunting dog. Young kids will find this perspective fun and entertaining. However, it is worth noting that older kids, especially middle schoolers, may think that this makes the story too “childish” for them. Therefore, this book appears to be most appropriate for young readers ages 7 to about ages 9 or 10. It is plausible that even young kindergarteners of ages 5 and 6 would be able to read this book with assistance.
Quill says: Hickory Doc’s Tales is a fun-filled collection of the adventures of Doc the hunting dog and his family. Harkey’s writing style is easy to read and amusing for young readers, while the explorations themselves are humorous and often teach valuable lessons.
Kirkus Reviews
A lovable bird dog points the way to outdoor fun in the country in this children’s book.
Harkey (The Budding Staff, 2005) presents a playful collection of stories narrated by a German short-haired pointer named Doc (his pedigree name is Chicoree’s Hickory Doc). The oldest in a family of five, good ol’ Doc spins colorful tales about quail-hunting dogs-like his daughter, Patch, who is the best tracker of all-in rural Oklahoma. Then there’s Doc’s laughably snooty little brother, Zeke, who brags about being kin to royalty because his coat is speckled instead of a “common” liver brown like Doc’s. The two brothers vie for the affections of Sly, a graceful bird dog with an impressive pedigree. Featuring other silly characters, such as a clumsy Labrador retriever named Newt, the tales reveal that life at the Lazy Dog Hacienda is full of giggly high jinks and an occasional snout of porcupine quills. There are scary moments, though, as when Big Bad Carl-the meanest hunter ever-steals Patch. And there’s some intrigue, including the mystery of the missing dog food. While conventional black-and-white drawings of big-eyed canines precede the chapters, they add little excitement to the stories (aimed at elementary school readers). But catchy chapter titles, like “Hamburgers, Fries, Caesar Salad, and Temptation,” and boldface subtitles break the prose into eye-appealing sections. With a voice that’s as friendly as a neighbor at the door with a pecan pie, Doc’s down-home dialogue is sprinkled with references that many kids should like. For example, he uses fast food to describe the scent of quails:
“Well, I can tell you they smell like no other smell-sort of a cross between chicken nuggets and fries.” When he’s around Zeke, Doc acts like a human brother; for example, they have staring contests. For those who aren’t squeamish about dogs eating pig ears for snacks, this collection gently-and respectfully-offers the basics of quail hunting: during the “off season,” the birds “need to rest and repopulate.” Harkey accents the prose with short, memorable landscape descriptions: wind that’s always blowing and prairie grass way taller than the dogs.
A sweet slice of rural American canine life.
Review for The Remarkable Story of Willie the Crow: A Hickory Doc's Tale
Gretchen Hansen, The US Review of Books
“Suddenly, a young black crow swooped down from the sky and landed on Patch’s head.”
Willie is a unique young crow. He is leaming to fly, but not without some challenges. It is during one of his practice flights that he meets Doc and Patch, two hunting dogs. Crows and dogs do not normally interact, but this is no ordinary crow. He begins spending time with this family of dogs. Patch, still a puppy, loves to chase Willie. They learn about each other as they play. However, Patch’s Uncle Zeke is not thrilled with this new friendship. One day, Patch gets into a dangerous situation. Willie is frightened but jumps into action. He calls her dad and brother to rescue her. They all must work together-even Uncle Zeke-if they are going to save her.
This action-packed story will spark the imagination of young readers. Harkey is a gifted storyteller and has created interesting and diverse characters. She skillfully uses friendly dialogue and adventure to offer lessons in friendship, inclusion, and courage. The author, a former educator, understands the imp011ance of appropriate reading-level vocabulary while introducing new words. The plot and theme of the narrative are cohesive and easily followed. Meanwhile, Mike Minick’s illustrations are sharp, vivid, and inviting. He artfully infuses the tale with movement. His portrayal of the animals endears them to the reader. Emotions are conveyed through the images, adding depth and sensitivity. His artistic talent complements Harkey’s writing skills. Children will enjoy this book, whether it is read out loud or individually. It captures the imagination with comedy, adventure, and emotion. It would be a great addition to a classroom or personal collection.
Kirkus Reviews
A lovable bird dog points the way to outdoor fun in the country in this children’s book.
Harkey (The Budding Staff, 2005) presents a playful collection of stories narrated by a German short-haired pointer named Doc (his pedigree name is Chicoree’s Hickory Doc). The oldest in a family of five, good ol’ Doc spins colorful tales about quail-hunting dogs-like his daughter, Patch, who is the best tracker of all-in rural Oklahoma. Then there’s Doc’s laughably snooty little brother, Zeke, who brags about being kin to royalty because his coat is speckled instead of a “common” liver brown like Doc’s. The two brothers vie for the affections of Sly, a graceful bird dog with an impressive pedigree. Featuring other silly characters, such as a clumsy Labrador retriever named Newt, the tales reveal that life at the Lazy Dog Hacienda is full of giggly high jinks and an occasional snout of porcupine quills. There are scary moments, though, as when Big Bad Carl-the meanest hunter ever-steals Patch. And there’s some intrigue, including the mystery of the missing dog food. While conventional black-and-white drawings of big-eyed canines precede the chapters, they add little excitement to the stories (aimed at elementary school readers). But catchy chapter titles, like “Hamburgers, Fries, Caesar Salad, and Temptation,” and boldface subtitles break the prose into eye-appealing sections. With a voice that’s as friendly as a neighbor at the door with a pecan pie, Doc’s down-home dialogue is sprinkled with references that many kids should like. For example, he uses fast food to describe the scent of quails:
“Well, I can tell you they smell like no other smell-sort of a cross between chicken nuggets and fries.” When he’s around Zeke, Doc acts like a human brother; for example, they have staring contests. For those who aren’t squeamish about dogs eating pig ears for snacks, this collection gently-and respectfully-offers the basics of quail hunting: during the “off season,” the birds “need to rest and repopulate.” Harkey accents the prose with short, memorable landscape descriptions: wind that’s always blowing and prairie grass way taller than the dogs.
A sweet slice of rural American canine life.
Reviews for Solitary Toes and Brown-Headed Cowbirds: A Hickory Doc's Tale
Toby Berry, The US Review of Books
“Surely I am not becoming more like my brother.”
This story appeals to the competitive nature of every single child. Even though the race isn’t the story’s main point, every young reader will be at the edge of their seat, wondering who wins the race between the hunting dog and the racehorse. Without giving any spoilers, this is not your classic “Tortoise and the Hare” type of tale.
There is so much to talk about with young students or one’s children. For example, do horses and dogs know that they are different, and how are they different or the same? This book is also fraught with lessons of tolerance and acceptance, sneaking in the back door via the reading journey. It is obvious that the author is a professional teacher. Likewise, the illustrations by Mike Minick are lifelike, bright, and well done. The lesson of how people see and treat the disabled is staged here, too. For instance, the fastest bird dog just so happens to have only three legs. The point isn’t belabored, but it is there for all to absorb.
Writing humor is hard, but Harkey nails the child humor along with the more serious lessons. For example, Deacon, the dog, learns by eating books. Deacon barks, “It is a good thing I just finished eating those binders on the horse books. I read all about racehorses and racing.” From cowbird natural laziness (hijacking nests for their own young) to a lazy bird dog that tries to be human’s best friend by taking all the credit, the theme of accepting the nature of others is a phenomenal lesson to discuss with kids. Simply put, this amazmg, amusing, original story plants seeds of peaceful thinking.
First Runner-Up in the 2022 Eric Hoffer Book Award Legacy Fiction Category
RECOMMENDED by the US Review
Kirkus Reviews
The hunting dogs at Lazy Dog Hacienda deal with an interloping horse in this children’s book.
Chicoree’s Hickory Doc, a shorthaired pointer dog, his brother Zeke, and another dog, Deacon, feel threatened when a horse named B.J. arrives at their hacienda The dogs inform her that her physical traits, such as her “solitary toes,” aren’t conducive to hunting. B.J. and the dogs swap insults, and Zeke and the horse get into a-physical a.’tercation, causing Zeke to stumble into a garden where he gets bitten by a turtle. The dogs are jealous that B.J. receives extra attention, but Doc reassures the others that their canine assistance is still necessary. He tells Zeke that ”B.J. can’t creep through the tall grass and find quail. Why, she would scare them off!” Angry after he spots B.J. snacking on dog food, Zeke proposes that they race, with the winner getting to eat all the chow in the barn. On race day, Zeke feigns illness, requiring Deacon, who has three legs, to compete instead. B.J. falls while attempting to nip Deacon’s nonexistent back leg. Deacon wins and shares his prize with the others-including B.J. {Doc reveals that their owner later sent B.J. to a new home because she “took a bite out of upholstery in his old red truck.”) Although this story features characters from Harkey’s ( The Remarkable Story of Willie the Crow, 2018, etc.) other books, it works well as a stand-alone title, as it includes introductory details, such as the dogs’ pedigree names, family history, and physical descriptions. A subplot about a cowbird who takes up residence in a dove’s nest feels underdeveloped, and it detracts from the main storyline; it might’ve been better as the focus of another book. The resolution of the main plot is also easy to predict, but this doesn’t detract from the book’s overall appeal. Returning illustrator Minick’s colorful, cartoonish images provide additional context; for example, the dogs’ owner is referred to only as “The Great One,” but the images clarify that he’s human.
Fans of Harkey’s previous works will enjoy this adventurous story of silly animal antics.
Review for Doc, Willie, and the Pack: Secrets, Gifts, Family
Michael Radon, The US Review of Books
“I can eat all the pack’s grub before they get in. But first, I’ll get my special snack.”
The adventures of Willie the Crow and the Lazy Dog Hacienda continue in this collection of short tales between the loyal but stubborn pack run by Doc and the selfish but well-meaning schemes of the near-sighted Willie the Crow. Willie’s current obsession is getting in through the dog door, so he can snack on the dog food without being detected. But his plans are constantly foiled by the chaotic and energetic dogs of the pack. Determined to make peace, Willie offers Doc some shiny wrappers as a truce. However, this leads to the dogs finding out about the treats Willie earns from their master by pecking on the fridge. The secret exchange is given away when a local news crew comes out to film Willie’s trick and make him a bit of a local celebrity.
Combining multiple short stories into another volume with these popular children’s characters, the author captures the kind of storytelling found within many beloved cartoons. By keeping the settings and the cast of characters restrained, children quickly familiarize themselves with the subjects of these tales and feel like they’ve known them all along. That familiarity breeds compassion and excitement, and young readers will want to quickly devour story after story about the Lazy Dog Hacienda. The illustrations are filled with personality and charm, and the characters provide a perfect balance of mischief and good nature. New readers will no doubt want to check out the other adventures of these delightful animals, and returning fans will find more of what they love in this pleasant read.
Reviews for Doc's Dog Days: A Hickory Doc's Activity Book
Kate Robinson, The US Review of Books
“‘Doc, you can learn a lot about a book by eating its binding.’”
Linda Harkey, a former educator and museum docent as well as a hunting dog enthusiast, writes children’s books about the beloved and oft-visited topic of canine capers, making the old new again by featuring a specific breed close to her heart-German short-haired pointers. In this third book of her series, the adorable black-and-white illustrations by Mike Minick are begging to be colored and doodled upon with markers, pencils, or crayons, making this both an educational and a fun diversion likely to be appreciated by kids and their caregivers, parents, and teachers.
The activity book serves as a transition from picture book to chapter book, with a flash story and a fullpage illustration in each spread. A single spread can be conswned as a separate lesson, story, or creative experience. The reading level and subject matter pertaining to the German shorthair breed and their tracking and hunting abilities is somewhat advanced in some stories in comparison to the coloring book illustrations, so younger children will need reading and information assistance as they enjoy their coloring. Some stories are simpler, less informative, tighter, and more playful than others, so this volume ultimately has broad appeal to a wide spectrum of kids: young non-readers, early readers, and more advanced readers who can tackle the more difficult text and the concepts themselves. Some stories are left purposely unfinished for development by students, with extra space on the page and prompted via a final question. There’s also space in the coloring book illustrations for kids to add their own creative flourishes.
The anthropomorphic, dog-centric stories are heartfelt, light, and humorous, though occasionally a bit self-conscious and over explanatory, in the sense that illustrations typically play a role in “showing” some plot point in children’s stories. Therefore, there are few visual surprises since the text tends to reiterate and upstage the pictorial action. The tales are set in specific locales, mostly Oklahoma and New Mexico. So, in addition to visiting the daily lives and adventures of hunting dogs, readers will also experience regional and environmental information, such as the wildlife they encounter and descriptions of landscapes.
The dogs’ viewpoints are unique as they refer to their human couple at the Lazy Dog Hacienda as “Great One” and “Food Giver.” Readers will also enjoy the various quirks of each character, such as Saie’s d mealtime behavior and insistence that her food be served in a sectional bowl, or Zeke’s desire to carry around a blanket during hunting season. The storybook dogs delight in their surroundings just as real dogs do, investigating anything attractive or new to them, such as Food Giver’s ice cream bar, the reason Porcupine Pete has quills, or why the Lazy Dog Hacienda’s owl is mysteriously hanging upside down one day. Readers are invited to explore these phenomena creatively, and no doubt they will also enjoy recounting their own dog stories in response to the book’s tales. The universal appeal of companionship with dogs and curiosity about wild animal encounters, plus the invitation to process these creatively, is a big plus for this book as well as the series.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review
Raven Howell, for Story Monsters
This independently published children’s workbook by author Linda Harkey is a wonderful companion to her book series, or could also be used as a stand-alone. The beginning list of “The Main Characters” encourages the reader to jump into the journal entries and stories that follow. Every page allows children to enjoy many creative activities to stimulate learning, imagination, and just plain brain power. My favorite idea the author cleverly used is allowing the young reader to finish a story for themselves.
I also have to mention that kids will love working on the coloring pages. Illustrator Mike Minick deftly drew out the personalities of the stories’ characters, and kids will no doubt enjoy the coloring aspect. This terrific workbook is appropriate for elementary students and dog lovers. Thumbs up!
5 STAR REVIEW
Review for Chatty the Hen Pheasant: Travels with the Pack
Nassau finds an unusual and extremely talkative specimen hidden under the snow, by author Linda Harkey.
Cimaroc Lucky Nassau (or Nassau for short) is a Labrador Retriever, and a fearless hunter. One day, whilst out hunting pheasant with his owner the ‘Great One,’ there is a ferocious snowstorm. Nassau is separated from his owner, but undeterred he carries on the hunt alone. He sniffs out a pheasant under the snow and dives in head-first to retrieve the specimen. As Nassau pulls it out of the snow, he is presented with a rather strange – and extremely chatty – bird. Nassau carefully holds the bird between his teeth and begins his search for the ‘Great One.’ But the ‘Great One’ isn’t too pleased with Nassau’s discovery because he has inadvertently captured a hen pheasant, which is protected from hunting. The ‘Great One’ promptly releases the bird to the sky.
This is an entertaining and educational story about a working dog, who performs an extremely important job for his human owner. Harkey shows the close bond between human and canine, and their relationship is beautifully captured in the illustrations by Mike Minick. Children will enjoy reading this story from the dog’s unique perspective, and will laugh at his frolics in the snow and his interactions with the very chatty bird.
Whilst the bird is unharmed and released by the dogs’ owner, the pretext of this book is the hunting of pheasants to kill, which could upset or scare some young children (particularly in communities where children are not exposed to hunting). Parents reading this story might want to be prepared to answer questions about this type of activity and why it happens. The author might also want to consider adding some additional notes or resources, to support parents with those conversations.
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Summary: ‘An entertaining and educational story about a working dog, who performs an extremely important job for his human owner. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’
Reviews for Desert Friends: Travels with the Pack
Joyce Jacobo, The US Review of Books
”Animal friends in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona are found in all sizes, shapes, and colors.”
Rodney the Roadrunner and Quincy the Quail are best friends who live in the Sonoran Desert in Arizona. They spend their days peacefully exploring the unique landscape of their home and exchanging tales of their perspectives on the world. One of their favorite activities is to race each other through an arroyo. When these friends encounter two hunting dogs who have scouted ahead of a hunter called “the Great One,” they stick together to overcome this tenifying situation. However, when things take an unexpected, terrifying twist for the worse, Rodney and Quincy must not only believe in each other but also seek to help the hunting dogs.
This fully illustrated tale features memorable characters who can help to introduce young readers to the wonders of the desert regions in a clever way. Through discussions of their similarities and differences, • Rodney and Quincy relate interesting facts about roadrunners and quails in such a way that will easily stick in the minds of their target audience. It is a fun, lighthearted read, which should work very well when shared by elementary school teachers with their classes. However, it could also make a wonderful bedtime story for children who are especially interested in animals. Additionally, the friendship between Rodney and Quincy provides the important lesson that our differences can, in fact, help to unite rather than divide us. They are certainly two friends who prove this truth and can help children to understand it. As such, this story would be a welcome addition to any children’s book library.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review
BookLife Review
The Sonoran Desert stands as one of North America’s most fantastical landscapes, alive with sandy vistas, prickly plant life, and, in this cheerful adventure story, surprising friends. Harkey’s picture book for young readers is equal parts daring and educational, following Rodney the roadrunner and Quincy the quail as they find their courage and make some unexpected new friends. The two birds are going about their usual business finding food when they are approached by Gator and Tripod, a pair of hunting dogs on the prowl. While there’s not an immediate threat, the disparate creatures are wary of each other-and that’s when a sudden deluge floods the dry streambed where they’re standing.
While the birds escape safely, Gator ends up with a leg full of cholla cactus spikes and Tripod, who has only three legs, is washed away downstream. In their quest to save Tripod, Rodney and Quincy must be brave and think fast-and in the end, they discover the true joy of adventure.
The intense river rescue scene will keep kids enthralled as they read quickly to find out what happens next. The book contains many quieter scenes as well where Rodney and Quincy ask each other questions about their feathers, habits, and diets, allowing curious kids to learn about these fascinating and unique desert creatures.
Minick’s illustrations utilize mostly muted hues of brown, gray, black, and green, rooting the story firmly in the barren desert setting and encouraging kids to see the beauty of the rough landscapes. While the background of each page shows mostly smudged representations of sand, succulents, and cacti, the main characters are clearly in focus, drawing all attention to Rodney as he munches on a blond tarantula or Quincy as he winces in disgust at the thought of eating a lizard. In the end, this entertaining tale will spark kids’ curiosity about new animals and placesalong with their adventurous spirit.
Comparable Titles: Vassiliki Tzomaka’s Hoot and Howl Across the Desert, Byrd Baylor’s The Desert Is Theirs.
Production grades
Cover: A
Design and typography: B+
Illustrations: A
Conrad J. Storad, Story Monsters Evaluation Excerpts
This book is well written and would fit well with the list of titles that currently make up the back list at StoryMonsters.com….Author Linda Harkey is an excellent storyteller. She has written a fun story of friendship with characters that are very easy to like…I’m not sure how much time the author has actually spent in the Sonoran Desert, but she does a very good job with her descriptions. She is adept at what I call, “writing for the eye.”…I love the way that the author writes dialog. Witty and fun.
Review for Desert Friends: Travels with the Pack, 2nd Edition
Dawn Menge, Story Monsters
I just love the illustrations in Desert Friends: Travels with the Pack. The 3D look accents the characters on each page. Who are the desert friends? A roadrunner and a quail learn all about each other as they travel through the Sonoran Desert. They are each different as Rodney the roadrunner loves to dine on a Blonde Tarantula and Quincy the Quail dines on his special homey mesquite tree in which he calls his bean pod delight. What do the two do when their friends the hunting dogs Gator and Tripod show up with the Great One? You’ll have to read Desert Friends to find out how they handle the sudden weather change in the Arroyo. I highly recommend Linda Harkey’s adventure book for your home and classroom library. She has enclosed lesson plans and vocabulary building in the back of the book to help build lessons about the desert.
Abigail L, Librarian
“A delightful children’s book that offers a heartwarming journey into the Sonoran Desert. Through the charming characters of Rodney the roadrunner and Quincy the quail, young readers are introduced to the themes of friendship, courage, and unity. Linda’s storytelling is engaging and filled with valuable life lessons, making it a perfect read for children aged 6-10.
Mike Minick’s illustrations are amazing, which bring the characters and the desert landscape to life in a vivid and captivating way. Desert Friends is not just a story; it’s an educational adventure that teaches kids about the unique individuality of roadrunners and quails, all while entertaining them with memorable escapades.” ~ Abigail L, Librarian
Publishers Weekly
Authentic desert adventures intertwine friendship, courage, unity, and individuality. ~ Publishers Weekly
Amazon Hot New Releases
#1 New Release in Children’s Bird Books, September 29, 2023
Reviews for The Great Animal Escape
Kidliomag - BookLife Review
Lova-Bull, a majestic Hereford bull & Mud Pie, a black Angus cow know that they don’t want to be anyone’s lunch or dinner as hamburger in Cowlick Cooking School ... so they craft a daring escape plan with the assistance of their friends Gracie, the Burro, and Bernie, a young blue raven.
In the beginning, the tale unfolded as Lova-Bull and Mud Pie decided not to board the cooking school bus, leading to a thrilling escape. Soon after, Gracie and Bernie joined them on their daring adventure. Together, they braved a fierce storm, faced a mama mountain lioness and her cubs, and saved Mud Pie from menacing four-legged monsters. The story weaved a magical tapestry, evoking the feeling of watching a captivating movie filled with humor, companionship, action, and unwavering determination in the face of challenges.
Embark on an exhilarating escape adventure with this group as they navigate challenges and overcome them with their never giving up attitude. This captivating story emphasizes teamwork, bravery, compassion, and understanding of animals. It serves as a reminder to humans that animals often possess greater kindness and empathy than we do.
Perfect for 7+
5 Stars
Grab your copy from Amazon.
Phaedra Greenwood
This is a fun read for kids around eight. Linda Harkey writes with insight, humor and sympathy about wild and domestic animals from their point of view. Harkey’s stories teach children odd facts about nature, like the blue-eyed raven. The animals have colorful personalities and a strong urge to take care of each other. The illustrations are perfect and Harkey includes to-do things at the end. What could be funnier than a pack of animals that escape from captivity and head into the wild woods because they heard about a farm without fences where they can live in freedom and not be eaten? Unless that hungry mama cougar catches up with them, looking to feed her kittens.
Kameron Brook, Reedsy
Nine short chapters that’ll have readers cheering for the safety of Lova-Bull, Mud Pie, & Gracie and laughing at a poo-covered raven chick.
SYNOPSIS
Join us on an exhilarating escapade with Gracie the Burro, Bernie, Lova-Bull, and Mud Pie in The Great Animal Escape by Linda Harkey … Get ready to embark on a rollercoaster ride, from facing off against four-wheeled monsters to braving the challenges of the great outdoors. As our brave animal heroes overcome obstacles with courage and teamwork, young readers will be inspired to discover their own inner strengths and embark on their own daring quests.
Every day, people sit down and eat beef as their main protein. We don’t stop and wonder if the cow we are about to eat experienced fears of becoming someone’s next meal. We never question if they know what’s happening with their number has been called and their head off to packing plants. The Great Animal Escape takes readers on a wild ride as we follow two animals who skip the Cowlick Ranch Cooking School Bus and head to greener pastures at Rancher Girard’s Cow Retirement Ranch.
Thanks to Gracie, the burro, Lova-Bull (Hereford bull) and Mud Pie (black Angus cow) discover the true destination of the school bus. The driver wasn’t taking them to a cooking class to teach the animals how to make burgers. No, he was taking the cattle to be made into burgers! Amazon has this chapter book listed for children between 8 and 12 years. That age group probably knows or can handle knowing where their steak, burgers, roast, etc. came from. They can also handle the descriptive burro versus mountain lion battle. (No images were created on the fight.)
As Lova-Bull and Mud Pie leave the two-legged creatures behind (in other words, people), they are joined by Gracie (burro) and Bernie (the adorable raven chick). From the moment Bernie entered the picture, he stole the show. I laughed, watching him try to pull a worm from the ground. And the chick falling into a cow pie was disgustingly adorable. It takes a mighty good artist to make cow poop adorable, but Jeff Yesh did it. Linda Harkey’s storyline kept me entertained. Why? Because I never knew what would happen next, such as Mud Pie’s reaction to the four-wheeled, two-eyed monster.
Bernie, Gracie, Lova-Bull, and Mud Pie had to assert dominance over mechanical monsters and those with four paws. In the end, these four lived happily ever after. I can’t say the same for the other cows on the bus or the rabbits and deer mentioned but never seen. I also hope the person driving the big truck was fine. A question kids might ask at the story’s conclusion.
The fun doesn’t end with the animals filling their bellies with hay. The author has included bonus material. In addition to the numerous discussion questions, there are three activities that might require research or a quick review of the story.
I recommend the chapter book for second through fifth graders. Any higher grades might consider it too childish.
Deborah Edmisten, Author
The Great Animal Escape by Linda Harkey is a book that offers both frolicking fun adventure and insightful life lessons.
Through the characters Lova-Bull and Mud Pie, Harkey skillfully guides young readers into the understanding that all creatures should have the right to be free and to live their lives peacefully and without fear.
Alongside this main theme, Harkey weaves wonderful characters into the narrative who exemplify friendship, comradeship, courage, and humor.
This book was a delight in its joining of fun and insight, adventure and wisdom. It is one I will personally be sharing with my grandchildren and highly recommending to others.
The illustrations by Jeff Yesh are gloriously unique, fanciful and fun.
Bravo, Linda Harkey and Jeff Yesh on a job well done!
Opinion 22 - Amazon
What a fun surprise to chuckle through this delightful book! Linda Harkey deftly leads the reader into a world where several animals, quirky and comical in character, are escaping from a trip to Cowlick Ranch where they may become, well… a meal. When troubles and disasters punctuate their newly hatched plan to get to Cow Retirement Ranch, situations resolve with a touch of humor and whimsy. Illustrator Jeff Yesh’s use of a pleasing palette of turquoise as a backdrop works superbly to depict the landscape intended, and he knows his way around creating scary, but not too scary expressions when the story calls fort. For readers who may have enjoyed Nicholas John Frith’s “Hello, Mr. Dodo,” you’ll love this one.
Melissa Chiles, Teacher
This is a delightful book to share with the children in your lives. It is a story about the adventures of animals on the move to a happier place. Along the way new friends and foes are met. I highly recommend this book to read with or to gift to a child in your life.
Theresa Maria Villarreal, Author
The Great Animal Escape is a delightful middle-grade adventure that will captivate young readers with its humorous and heartfelt story.
Would you recommend this book? Why or why not?
Absolutely! I would recommend The Great Animal Escape for middle-grade readers, especially those who enjoy animal adventures and teamwork. The story is engaging, full of twists and surprises, and offers valuable lessons about friendship, problem-solving, and courage. It’s also packed with funny moments that make it a fun and lighthearted read.
What makes this book special or stand out from its competition?
What makes The Great Animal Escape stand out is the unique dynamic between the animals, each with their own quirky personalities and skills. Unlike other animal escape stories, this book weaves in an unexpected twist that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The characters are so well-developed that you find yourself rooting for each one. Additionally, the underlying theme of working together despite differences adds depth to the fun adventure.
What are your thoughts about the illustrations? Do they help enhance the story? Why or why not?
The illustrations in The Great Animal Escape are fantastic. They not only complement the story but elevate it by adding humor and detail that enhance the reader’s imagination. The way the illustrator brings the animals’ emotions to life through expressive faces and action-packed scenes helps readers feel more connected to the story. It’s the kind of book where the artwork and text work in harmony to make the reading experience even more enjoyable.
Would you consider adding this to your classroom, library, or buy it as a gift for someone else?
While I don’t have a classroom, as a cohost of The Storyteller’s Shelf Podcast, I would absolutely recommend featuring The Great Animal Escape in an episode. Its fun, adventurous plot and important themes make it a great book to discuss for middle-grade readers and educators alike. It’s also a wonderful gift for young animal lovers and would be a great addition to any home or school library. The story’s humor and heart will resonate with listeners and readers of all ages.
