From School Library Journal
Grade 3-5. Bill Wallace's story (Holiday, 1980) of the bonding between a boy and a dog is not to be missed. This presentation, read by L.J. Ganser, is so softly dramatic that it not only captures the essence of gentle emotion but essentially transports readers to the Oklahoma farm where Ricky exhibits courage beyond belief. Ricky is terrified by dogs because as a toddler he was mercilessly mauled by a rabid dog and left to die. Sixty-three stitches later with no anesthesia, Ricky is scarred with the emotional and physical memories that constantly recall his tragedy. The softness of Ganser's voice reflects the softness of Ricky's heart when a puppy is left to starve because he responds with a littler of kittens for food but is rejected. Hence, the name Kitty. Ricky musters all his courage and feeds the puppy, building a closeness that only friends realize and conquering his all-consuming fear. With Ricky, readers suffer the loss and feel the anguish when Kitty is accidentally killed at an oil rig. Hope, however, still prevails and happiness does come through sorrow. Ganser brings life and emotion to a powerful story with his dramatic rendition. This touching and encouraging story add a further dimension to the significance of boy and dog relationships, and should be high on public and school library priority lists.
Patricia Mahoney Brown, Franklin Elementary School, Kenmore, Copyright 1997 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Ricky overcomes his deep fear of dogs to rescue a starving puppy, eventually growing to love his misfit dog named Kitty. Ganser's Midwestern accent lends authenticity and completeness to this tale set in Oklahoma. Reading Ricky's long narrative, he easily adjusts his tones to the young character's many emotions. Ganser's mature intonations neatly mimic the few adult parts required. Describing the deadly fight against the feral dog pack, Ganser fills the listener with such intense emotion that the scene seems real. Despite the sadder scenes, Ganser's rendering of the story's end enhances the positive aspects of the plot and leaves the listener feeling happy and hopeful. P.A.J. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine
