Sled Dogs
Dog heroes Series
What’s inside...
Sled Dogs explores the fascinating history, breeds, and training of sled dogs, as well as their evolution from working dogs to sports champions. The book highlights notable sled dogs like Balto, who heroically transported medicine in a blizzard in 1925, and Pretty Boy, a Husky that recovered from an accident to race in the Iditarod. Featuring vivid photos and engaging narratives, Sled Dogs captivates young readers with thrilling accounts of these canine heroes and their adventures in sled dog racing. This book is part of Bearport's Dog Heroes series.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
7-12
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think makes sled dogs so special and important in this story?
How did the teamwork among the dogs help them on their journey?
Can you describe how the environment affected the sled dogs’ adventure?
What emotions did you feel while reading about the sled dogs’ experiences?
If you were part of a sled dog team, what role would you like to play and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the discussion by sharing your own thoughts on the resilience and determination shown by the sled dogs, encouraging your child to explore these themes.
Ask your child to think about a time when they had to work with others to achieve a goal, and relate it to the cooperation among the sled dogs in the book.
While discussing the book, use descriptive language and vivid imagery used in the narrative to help your child visualize the story’s setting and increase their empathy for the characters.
Encourage your child to consider the perspective of different characters, including the dogs and the humans, to deepen their understanding of the story.
Promote critical thinking by asking your child what decisions they would have made if they were in the same situations as the characters in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Cooperation
Explanation: In 'Sled Dogs,' the sled dogs must work together to successfully pull the sled through snowy terrains. This collaboration is crucial for their survival and success.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of working together to achieve common goals, which can be applied in school projects or team sports.
Example Lesson: Resilience and Perseverance
Explanation: The sled dogs face various challenges in the harsh Arctic environment, yet they persist and overcome these obstacles. Their determination is vividly portrayed throughout the book.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to stay determined and resilient when facing personal challenges, whether it's completing a difficult homework assignment or learning a new skill.
Example Lesson: Responsibility and Care
Explanation: The story highlights the musher’s role in taking care of the sled dogs, ensuring they are healthy, well-fed, and rested. This reflects a strong sense of duty and attentiveness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of taking care of others, including pets and family members, emphasizing the importance of responsibility in daily life.
Example Lesson: Adaptability
Explanation: As the sled dogs traverse different landscapes and weather conditions, they adapt to their changing environment effectively.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the importance of being flexible and adaptable in new situations, such as moving to a new school or dealing with changes at home.