Letters From Wolfie, written by Patti Sherlock and cover illustrations by Jay Cooper & Christian FuhfhausenPublisher: Puffin Books
Pages: 256
Genre: Fiction - Historical
Rating: Thumbs Up!
The book is set in 1969 during the Vietnam War and is based on the experience of the main character Mark, a 13 year old boy. Mark's brother is leaving to serve in the war and then Mark decides he will donate his part malmute-part german shepard dog, Wolfie, to the Army scouts program. At the time he feels this is the patriotic and right thing to do. Throughout the story, Mark has difficulties getting information about Wolfie, but then recieves "Letters From Wolfie".
The story goes on to take us into the life of the fear, sadness, and uncertainties of war - through the eyes of not only Mark, but Wolfie. Complications, confusion and the complexity of patriotism are all reflected on by a very young Mark as he goes through normal youth experiences. As the story comes to a close and not all endings are happy, you simply come to a better understanding of the internal chaos of being willing to lose something you love for belief that are often times second guessed throughout the process.
I rated this book at a "Thumbs Up!" because it was a great story of what could have been real life events, though very sad. I felt the story was a good indicator of the question one feels when personally involved or touched by war. I also thought the dogs perspective and the connection between Mark and Wolfie gave rise to me really liking this book.
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