From Publishers Weekly
Even readers with little knowledge of (or interest in) British feudal systems and peasant revolts may find themselves engrossed in this unique fictional tale set in 1381 and told from a hunting dog's point of view. The canine enjoys a comfortable existence with her family of serfs until her master and mistress are abruptly arrested for attending revolutionary rallies. The hound turns hero: she manages to find a home for the pair's children, finds the couple en route to prison and brings them their baby's hat so they know their children are safe. Through the dog's eyes, readers get an objective view of various acts of evildoing?including the execution of Rufus, his master, and the villainous miller's unlawful usurping of Rufus's property?before the canine and her clan do what they can to restore justice. Branford's subtle, poetic writing ("We slipped away under the trees to look for wood mice. But there was a bad smell under the trees, a smell of sickness and sorrow and secrets") evokes both the splendor of nature and the turbulence of the times. The author's remarkable understanding of animal behavior and human tendencies reverberate throughout this eloquent historic tale and may well have readers considering what truly goes on in the mind of a dog. Ages 10-14.
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From School Library Journal
Grade 6 UpAThe author's deep understanding of dogs is combined with an equally deep feeling for history to create a remarkable, touching story set in England during the fateful year of 1381. The narrator is an aging but still able farm dog, in her day the best hunter on four legs or two. Her humble owner, Rufus, and his wife Comfort are good to the dog and her pups, providing the "fire, bed, and bone" and the affection that keeps the animals from the wild forest life. The couple works assiduously at making their small holding of land prosper to build a better life for their children. However, times are cruel. Throughout the country unjust landlords press their tenants harshly. Charismatic reformers preach against the corruption, rebellious ideas spread, and eventually Rufus and Comfort are caught up in the Peasants' Revolt. When their involvement is discovered, life changes drastically for people and canines alike. The exciting plot, filled with hope, action, and tragedy, never hits a false note as related through the dog's sensibilities. Branford has produced an ingenious tour de force.AStarr E. Smith, Marymount University Library, Arlington, VA
Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
by L.S. Matthews
