Book details
Cracker!: The Best Dog in Vietnam
Description
Cracker works for the US army. She's a German shepherd dog trained to sniff out bombs, traps, and the enemy. The fate of entire platoons rests on her keen sense of smell.Rick Hanski is headed to Vietnam, where he plans to prove his dad wrong - and everyone else who thinks he isn't tough enough for war. But soon he can't help wondering if they were right…When Cracker is paired with Rick, she isn't too sure about her new handler. Is he up to the job? They need to be friends before they can become a team, and they've got to be a team if they want to get home alive…
Age
8-13
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
311 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: 'Cracker!: The Best Dog in Vietnam' offers readers a unique perspective on the Vietnam War through the eyes of a military dog, providing a blend of education and emotional narrative that can deepen understanding of this complex period in history.
- Emotional Connection: The book creates a strong emotional bond between the reader and the characters, especially Cracker, the dog, allowing readers to experience a range of emotions from joy to heartache, fostering empathy and compassion.
- Character Development: Cynthia Kadohata's storytelling skillfully portrays the growth and development of both human and canine characters, offering readers a chance to witness the transformative power of friendship and loyalty in the face of adversity.
- Engaging Narrative: The book is well-written and engaging, with action-packed scenes and heartfelt moments that keep readers invested in the story from beginning to end, making it a compelling read for both young adults and adults alike.