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The Tale of Rescue
When a blizzard traps a family outside in a whiteout, a cattle dog devises a stunning rescue in a moving, suspenseful, and gorgeously illustrated story.
A family—a mother, a father, and their ten-year-old son—have come all the way from Florida to the Appalachian foothills to experience the wonder of a snowy weekend. At a nearby farm, a cattle dog is working, as she does every day, driving her forty head of cattle from pasture to corral and back again. And then, suddenly, a blizzard descends. The family is trapped outside, disoriented in the whiteout. They are panicked, exhausted, freezing, and stranded in waist-deep drifts. From off in the distance, the cattle dog has heard their faint, snow-drowned cries. Her inexhaustible attention turns to saving them. This stirring tale is both a compelling story of survival and a meditation on the tremendous will of man's best friend.
A family—a mother, a father, and their ten-year-old son—have come all the way from Florida to the Appalachian foothills to experience the wonder of a snowy weekend. At a nearby farm, a cattle dog is working, as she does every day, driving her forty head of cattle from pasture to corral and back again. And then, suddenly, a blizzard descends. The family is trapped outside, disoriented in the whiteout. They are panicked, exhausted, freezing, and stranded in waist-deep drifts. From off in the distance, the cattle dog has heard their faint, snow-drowned cries. Her inexhaustible attention turns to saving them. This stirring tale is both a compelling story of survival and a meditation on the tremendous will of man's best friend.
103 pages, Hardcover
First published October 13, 2015
11 people are currently reading
576 people want to read
About the author
Michael J. Rosen
125 books29 followersRosen's Website should provide all this and more. It's http://www.fidosopher.com.
Nonetheless: Michael J. Rosen is an American author and illustrator with over 120 books of fiction, nonfiction, humor, picture books, poetry, and more. With a strong interest in nature and animals, reflecting his animal behavior degree from Ohio State University, Rosen resides within a peaceful crease of Central Ohio with his pack of animal companions that include 2 small koi ponds he helped build on the 100 acres he shares in the foothills of the Ohio Appalachians. An avid dog lover, he was inspired by Chant, his newest Australian stumpy-tail cattle dog, which led to the creation of his newest book of fiction, The Tale of Rescue, which will be released in October 2015. With an MFA in poetry from Columbia University, Rosen also showcases his skills and talents in other projects such as The Maine Coon’s Haiku: And Other Poems for Cat Lovers (2015).
Nonetheless: Michael J. Rosen is an American author and illustrator with over 120 books of fiction, nonfiction, humor, picture books, poetry, and more. With a strong interest in nature and animals, reflecting his animal behavior degree from Ohio State University, Rosen resides within a peaceful crease of Central Ohio with his pack of animal companions that include 2 small koi ponds he helped build on the 100 acres he shares in the foothills of the Ohio Appalachians. An avid dog lover, he was inspired by Chant, his newest Australian stumpy-tail cattle dog, which led to the creation of his newest book of fiction, The Tale of Rescue, which will be released in October 2015. With an MFA in poetry from Columbia University, Rosen also showcases his skills and talents in other projects such as The Maine Coon’s Haiku: And Other Poems for Cat Lovers (2015).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
October 17, 2015
“A Tale of Rescue” is a heartwarming tale of courage and duty that will particularly appeal to animal lovers.
The story centers around a family from Florida who become lost outside during a sudden blizzard while they are vacationing in Ohio. Their rescue comes in the form of a cattle dog, who leads them to safety by unusual means.
Candlewick Press has a reputation for extraordinarily high quality children’s literature, and this book is no exception. The writing has a melody to it, which based on the story’s content just makes one want to snuggle under a cozy blanket and savor each word. The artwork is extraordinary and will enchant children and adults alike.
4 Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Candlewick Press for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The story centers around a family from Florida who become lost outside during a sudden blizzard while they are vacationing in Ohio. Their rescue comes in the form of a cattle dog, who leads them to safety by unusual means.
Candlewick Press has a reputation for extraordinarily high quality children’s literature, and this book is no exception. The writing has a melody to it, which based on the story’s content just makes one want to snuggle under a cozy blanket and savor each word. The artwork is extraordinary and will enchant children and adults alike.
4 Stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Candlewick Press for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2017
This is a poetic heroic tale. Lovely language and watercolor pictures.
December 8, 2015
Sixteen years ago, nearly to the day, my husband and his youngest brother died in an automobile accident. Month after month I barely existed. On August 21, 2000 a small chocolate Labrador female puppy was born; the runt of the litter. For us it was love at first sight. I named her Xena after the television warrior princess realizing strength was essential for her survival. She was so small it required feeding her three times a day. I was allowed to have her at school in a crate in my office. (I let her out quite a bit thanks to my principal, Dick Swenor.) During story times she would sit on my lap as I read to the students. She saved me; filling my life with joy.
Different breeds of dogs are known for particular traits. One thing they have in common is their ability to know when they are needed. A dog guy to the core and author Michael J. Rosen (The Hound Dog's Haiku and Other Poems for Dog Lovers) has penned a remarkable story about a cattle dog who accomplished a feat out of the ordinary. The Tale of Rescue (Candlewick, October 13, 2015) is a tribute to this dog, to all dogs, who do as they have always done. They save us one heart at a time.
My full recommendation: http://librariansquest.blogspot.com/2...
Different breeds of dogs are known for particular traits. One thing they have in common is their ability to know when they are needed. A dog guy to the core and author Michael J. Rosen (The Hound Dog's Haiku and Other Poems for Dog Lovers) has penned a remarkable story about a cattle dog who accomplished a feat out of the ordinary. The Tale of Rescue (Candlewick, October 13, 2015) is a tribute to this dog, to all dogs, who do as they have always done. They save us one heart at a time.
My full recommendation: http://librariansquest.blogspot.com/2...
June 27, 2015
This is a story about a cattle dog and family on vacation, which sounds like a really weird combination but it is a terrific story. The story opens telling about the dog. The dog loves to herd cattle and author goes into some lovely specific details about how the dog works and what makes it happy. Then it tells about a family that is on vacation from Florida in Ohio and how much they are enjoying the snow. Until they get lost in a white out. The dog comes to help, even though his owner thinks the dog has gone insane. What's really great about this book is the immediacy of it. The story moves at breakneck speed (much like the energy level of the dog) and it's really hard to put down. The watercolor illustrations are lovely and make a good match to the text. I really liked this one.
November 16, 2015
The Tale of Rescue, a story by Michael Rosen, shows how kindness is the solution to any crisis, and how heroes emerge from the most unlikely of places. A family of three go on a vacation, trading sunny Florida for snow covered Ohio. Everything is fine, until they get lost in the midst of an endless whiteout. Numb with cold, the prospect of making it through the night seems grim. They cry for help without success. But somewhere not so far away, a cattle dog is listening. Knowing someone is in great anguish, she sets out on the bravest journey of her life. Will she rescue these people or die trying? Read the book to find out.
My favorite parts of the book were the beautiful illustrations. Often, as a chapter book reader, I forget how meaningful a picture can be in giving a story a scene and uncovering another layer about the characters. This book did just that, using pictures to take the story to another level. I saw the dog’s matted brown-black fur, her ears perked up and listening. I noticed the family’s thick round parkas and how they huddled around each other for warmth. These small things, whether pictures or words, are the difference between a book that grabs you and doesn’t let go, and a book that gets thrown back to the shelf very quickly.
I would give this book five stars because of the imagery it had and the way it roped two stories into one. The stories of the cattle dog and the lost family were good alone, but together they were powerful and memorable. This was especially conveyed in the epilogue, where it reunited the two stories again, years after it all happened.
I recommend this book to ages ten and up, and to all genders. Even though it is relatively short, the book is powerful, so older kids would enjoy it more. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and I know that everyone else will too.
Review by Anya A, age 11, Metropolitan Washington Mensa
My favorite parts of the book were the beautiful illustrations. Often, as a chapter book reader, I forget how meaningful a picture can be in giving a story a scene and uncovering another layer about the characters. This book did just that, using pictures to take the story to another level. I saw the dog’s matted brown-black fur, her ears perked up and listening. I noticed the family’s thick round parkas and how they huddled around each other for warmth. These small things, whether pictures or words, are the difference between a book that grabs you and doesn’t let go, and a book that gets thrown back to the shelf very quickly.
I would give this book five stars because of the imagery it had and the way it roped two stories into one. The stories of the cattle dog and the lost family were good alone, but together they were powerful and memorable. This was especially conveyed in the epilogue, where it reunited the two stories again, years after it all happened.
I recommend this book to ages ten and up, and to all genders. Even though it is relatively short, the book is powerful, so older kids would enjoy it more. I thoroughly enjoyed this story, and I know that everyone else will too.
Review by Anya A, age 11, Metropolitan Washington Mensa
January 19, 2016
THE TALE OF RESCUE by Michael J. Rosen tells the fictional adventure of a dog that comes to the aid of a family during a blizzard.
When a young boy and his parents are lost in a snow storm, a cattle dog comes to their rescue. Unable to convince his master of the emergency, the cattle dog manages to create an ingenious way to save the frightened family.
Rosen’s rich storytelling skills make the tale come to life. Middle grade readers will feel like they’re reading a true story. What makes the novel particularly compelling is the use of the epilogue to extend the experience.
The beautiful watercolor illustrations add to the appeal of the story.
Authentic, well-written animal stories are always in demand, so librarians will find a large audience among animal lovers. The short length combined with the engaging epilogue will be popular among reluctant readers.
To learn more about the author, go to http://www.fidosopher.com.
Published by Candlewick Press on October 13, 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.
When a young boy and his parents are lost in a snow storm, a cattle dog comes to their rescue. Unable to convince his master of the emergency, the cattle dog manages to create an ingenious way to save the frightened family.
Rosen’s rich storytelling skills make the tale come to life. Middle grade readers will feel like they’re reading a true story. What makes the novel particularly compelling is the use of the epilogue to extend the experience.
The beautiful watercolor illustrations add to the appeal of the story.
Authentic, well-written animal stories are always in demand, so librarians will find a large audience among animal lovers. The short length combined with the engaging epilogue will be popular among reluctant readers.
To learn more about the author, go to http://www.fidosopher.com.
Published by Candlewick Press on October 13, 2015. ARC courtesy of publisher.
December 29, 2020
Actual Rating: 3.5 Stars
This is a beautifully written book with soft watercolor illustrations to match. Parts of it really touched my heart as a dog-lover. Much of the described canine behavior was immediately recognizable to me from my own experiences.
I had an opportunity to meet the author at a local book festival a few years ago and thought he was a kind, genuine person - someone who shares my love of animals, nature, and words. I have also enjoyed Mr. Rosen's The Cuckoo's Haiku: and Other Birding Poems and look forward to reading more of his work.
This is a beautifully written book with soft watercolor illustrations to match. Parts of it really touched my heart as a dog-lover. Much of the described canine behavior was immediately recognizable to me from my own experiences.
I had an opportunity to meet the author at a local book festival a few years ago and thought he was a kind, genuine person - someone who shares my love of animals, nature, and words. I have also enjoyed Mr. Rosen's The Cuckoo's Haiku: and Other Birding Poems and look forward to reading more of his work.
July 27, 2015
This is a story of a family's survival and a dog's dedication to duty. With the story unfolding via the physical and mental experiences of the characters, there are ample descriptions of sights, sounds, motions, and emotions, and the reader will experience the danger of the blizzard along with the characters. The dog is definitely the "Alpha" character! Writing which relies on sensorial description conjures up the notion of a "slow" plot, but that is not the case in Rosen's The Tale of Rescue.
April 3, 2016
I won this book as a Goodreads Firstread. What a gem.
The story is about a cattle dog, a family lost in a snowstorm, and the unique manner the dog uses to help them.
The description of the training and work the dog goes through every day is astounding. I enjoyed the original rescue efforts. It was not a typical " Lassie" moment.
The detail to the scenery and storm makes it easy to picture the events in one's mind.
This book would be excellent to read with children or grandchildren ages approximately 6-11 years.
The story is about a cattle dog, a family lost in a snowstorm, and the unique manner the dog uses to help them.
The description of the training and work the dog goes through every day is astounding. I enjoyed the original rescue efforts. It was not a typical " Lassie" moment.
The detail to the scenery and storm makes it easy to picture the events in one's mind.
This book would be excellent to read with children or grandchildren ages approximately 6-11 years.
August 2, 2018
I read this little book in about an hour and would recommend it for dog lovers of any age. It’s a moving story of a cattle dog who saves a family stranded in a blizzard. Fiction, but totally believable. Great tale!
March 31, 2016
A Florida family comes to Ohio to stay at a rented cabin in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains for a week. Their son has never seen snow before, so they're excited to share this experience with him. The three spend a week cross-country skiing, building snow people, and having snowball fights. On their last morning they wake to new snow, and decide to hike the half mile to the lodge for breakfast. They don't know about winter weather - or whiteouts, and when they suddenly can barely see in front of them, and the lodge doesn't appear, they turn back to the cabin. But they can't find that either, and all of a sudden they are lost, with the storm getting worse...
At the same time a local cattle dog hear's the father's whistle for help in the distance. She makes her way through the snow to the stranded family, but can't get the farmer to understand the seriousness of what's going on. How can she rescue the stranded family on her own? Beautiful language, a spirited canine hero and gorgeous color illustrations will make this one a hit with reluctant and proficient readers.
At the same time a local cattle dog hear's the father's whistle for help in the distance. She makes her way through the snow to the stranded family, but can't get the farmer to understand the seriousness of what's going on. How can she rescue the stranded family on her own? Beautiful language, a spirited canine hero and gorgeous color illustrations will make this one a hit with reluctant and proficient readers.
November 8, 2015
Beautiful watercolors accompany this quickly moving story of a family of Floridians caught in a blizzard in Ohio and one determined cattle dog. What I enjoyed was the unusual presentation of the characters which remain unnamed until the very last section of the book. Also unusual was the building of tension with lots of figurative language. Liked the look at a working farm dog, not a pet dog.
April 11, 2016
This book put me in mind of the bumper stickers I see regularly on cars that say "Who rescued who?" Dogs rescue us on many levels, both great and small, and this book is a tale of both types of rescue. The art is perfect for the story.
August 20, 2016
Sweet story but told rather formally about a working cattle dog's rescue of a family trapped in a white out blizzard. The watercolor illustrations by Stan Fellows are stunning. At 103 pages it's fairly short for a book.
June 21, 2015
I had the privilege of reviewing "The Tale of Rescue" while it was still manuscript.
EXCELLENT read for kids and adults alike!!
EXCELLENT read for kids and adults alike!!
October 2, 2015
A cattle dog rescues a family trapped in a blizzard. A suspenseful and moving story about a courageous canine with handsome illustrations by Stan Fellows.
November 17, 2015
Beautifully written, with lovely watercolor illustrations.
January 22, 2016
Not a book that I would typically read but it piqued my interest. Heartwarming story about getting reached by a herding animal.
January 28, 2016
Heartwarming story, but I wished he had named the characters. When the characters don't have names I feel distant from them.
March 10, 2017
This is the story about a cattle dog. The owner named her, but never really called her by her name, just cast, bye, and that'll do. A mother, father, and their son embark on an adventure to Ohio to experience snow firsthand. They are coming from Florida. They do not realize that there is a blizzard coming and their paths will cross with the cattle dog and so begins an adventure of their lives. I would recommend this for any collection looking for cause and effect stories for young readers. The author does a great job of keeping the reader on the edge of their seat throughout the story.
April 30, 2021
made me teary and want a healer of my own.
This story was different than I had expected from the synopsis. The author writes well in his description of the storm and the hardship of trying to get home
to the family's vacation home. The dog's role was surprising and maybe too good to be true...but I sure want it to be.
This story was different than I had expected from the synopsis. The author writes well in his description of the storm and the hardship of trying to get home
to the family's vacation home. The dog's role was surprising and maybe too good to be true...but I sure want it to be.
December 11, 2024
I read this quick little book today because my city library's winter reading challenge is encouraging readers to read a book with snow on the cover. This book fit the bill! I enjoyed the story and the illustrations, and the reunion with the dog near the end was touching, but I was frustrated by the book's many unresolved questions.
February 19, 2017
The illustrations are lovely. I read this with my son who adores dogs, great choice!
February 24, 2017
Read it with my 11 year old son and he loved it. Gave it a 10 out of 5. Short, exciting story about a courageous and smart farm dog who rescues a family caught outside in a blizzard.
February 18, 2018
lovely story!
May 1, 2019
"Endings and answers are just patient beginnings."
Short and enlightening, with nice illustrations!
Short and enlightening, with nice illustrations!
July 15, 2019
Read this with my 12 year-old and loved the lessons we learned from this heartwarming adventure. A quick read, full of beautiful imagery, and deep truths.
January 7, 2020
A beautiful dog story of heroism.
September 7, 2020
Loved this endearing tale of a dog saving a family and the son who looks his name years later. Well narrated by Nicolas Mondetti
December 20, 2020
A quick read for any dog lover! It’s beautifully written and illustrated.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews