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Remembering Vera
From beloved author Patricia Polacco comes the heartwarming and true story of Vera, an amazing dog who was found as a stray by the US Coast Guard, moved into the San Francisco Bay base, and became a hero and friend.
In 1962 a stray dog was found under a pile of boxes in a Coast Guard warehouse in what used to be called Government Island, the Coast Guard Base in San Francisco Bay, when a seaman named Dave Bunch was mopping the floor. It was love at first sight. At first the men decided to hide the pup from the Commander, thinking she wouldn’t be allowed. But soon enough all of the men in the barracks fell hard for the little dog. Then one day when high waves challenged another vessel at sea, it was Vera’s fierce determination and natural swimming ability that brought the life preserver and safety line to the sinking boat. Vera became a hero and the beloved pet and mascot of the San Francisco Coast Guard.
In 1962 a stray dog was found under a pile of boxes in a Coast Guard warehouse in what used to be called Government Island, the Coast Guard Base in San Francisco Bay, when a seaman named Dave Bunch was mopping the floor. It was love at first sight. At first the men decided to hide the pup from the Commander, thinking she wouldn’t be allowed. But soon enough all of the men in the barracks fell hard for the little dog. Then one day when high waves challenged another vessel at sea, it was Vera’s fierce determination and natural swimming ability that brought the life preserver and safety line to the sinking boat. Vera became a hero and the beloved pet and mascot of the San Francisco Coast Guard.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published October 3, 2017
About the author
Patricia Polacco
92 books1,089 followersPatricia Polacco is a New York Times bestselling author and illustrator with around seventy beloved and award-winning books to her credit, including The Keeping Quilt, Pink and Say, The Blessing Cup, Chicken Sunday, and Thank You, Mr. Falker. She resides in Michigan.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
November 3, 2017
Polacco has always been one of my favorite children's authors. Remembering Vera is a sentimental story about a pup working along side the US Coast Guard up in San Francisco back in 1962. Polacco retells the story of how Vera saves lives on several occasions. Heart-warming story. The only thing I question is why poor Vera wasn't spayed so she wouldn't have so many litters of puppies?
March 5, 2020
Patricia Polacco tells the true story of Vera, a heroic little dog who became an honorary member of the U.S. Coast Guard, in this poignant picture-book. Found as a stray by Coast Guard serviceman Davie Bunch in 1962, Vera was adopted by the entire barracks, and kept a secret from the "Ol' Man." Then a disabled boat called for help, and only Vera could get the rope across to the endangered sailors, swimming her way through rough seas, and winning a place in the officer's heart. Soon becoming the beloved mascot of the base on Government Island, in San Francisco Bay, Vera went on to perform other heroic actions, and to have many litters of puppies. When she grew old and infirm, and had to be euthanized in 1967, she was given an honor guard at her funeral and internment...
I found Remembering Vera immensely moving, and (as per usual with a Patricia Polacco title) was tearing up at more than one point. Dogs are often so loyal and true to the humans in their lives, and do so many wonderful and important things for us, and Vera is a shining example of that! I appreciated both the brief author's note at the beginning, and the one at the rear, giving more information about Vera. How amazing, that Patricia Polacco got to meet Vera, when she toured the Coast Guard base with a relative living there, and how poignant that she was also there for Vera's final moments, when the poor pup was brought into the Oakland SPCA where she was working. Highly recommended, both to fellow Patricia Polacco fans, as well as to anyone looking for picture-books about brave helper dogs, although parents and adults should be aware that Vera does die in the end, which might upset sensitive younger children.
I found Remembering Vera immensely moving, and (as per usual with a Patricia Polacco title) was tearing up at more than one point. Dogs are often so loyal and true to the humans in their lives, and do so many wonderful and important things for us, and Vera is a shining example of that! I appreciated both the brief author's note at the beginning, and the one at the rear, giving more information about Vera. How amazing, that Patricia Polacco got to meet Vera, when she toured the Coast Guard base with a relative living there, and how poignant that she was also there for Vera's final moments, when the poor pup was brought into the Oakland SPCA where she was working. Highly recommended, both to fellow Patricia Polacco fans, as well as to anyone looking for picture-books about brave helper dogs, although parents and adults should be aware that Vera does die in the end, which might upset sensitive younger children.
March 6, 2026
#doesthedogdie?
Spoilers, yes, but seeing as this book was written about a time many decades ago, it makes sense.
For someone who wants a good story, positive outcome, a bit of danger and adventure, and who loves dogs.
Spoilers, yes, but seeing as this book was written about a time many decades ago, it makes sense.
For someone who wants a good story, positive outcome, a bit of danger and adventure, and who loves dogs.
January 29, 2018
Lovely story!
February 15, 2018
Winter break bookaday #23. Another winner from Polacco! Of course it has a dog in it which bumped it to the top of my TBR. Of course the ending drew tears to my eyes. Love the photo and author note at the end!
October 14, 2017
I can't believe the number of exclamation points that made it past an editor, if there was any editing going on. But beyond that, the story itself is bound to tug at heart strings (at least it did, mine) so I have to give it a 3 stars though I was inclined to give it a 2. I just can't resist a good dog story.
January 18, 2021
it's a story of a relationship between a dog and a coast guard
it is a very good children's book because the texts are well illustrated and easy to understand. it helps make children aware of the importance of life even if I would have preferred a little more text and precision
it is a very good children's book because the texts are well illustrated and easy to understand. it helps make children aware of the importance of life even if I would have preferred a little more text and precision
September 30, 2018
super cute story of real dog who helped Coast Guard unit save lives.
April 23, 2021
A great read for dog lovers and history buffs! I never heard of Vera before reading this. An educational and interesting read.
February 13, 2018
Loved it through and through!
December 10, 2024
What a Touching Novel! The Author of Remembering Vera does a fantastic job with adding character to the story. This novel is about a dog that becomes a hero! This picture book entertains readers who want to keep reading till the end. The illustrations throughout Remembering Vera are very informative in which it is easy to read and make predictions. This children's picture book will definitely entice young readers because most kids love animals, especially dogs! This book would be a great read for young students that enjoy animals!
March 25, 2023
Vera was a little puppy found on the dock by a Coast Guard serviceman. He hid the dog and taught her tricks. When a boat needed rescuing during a storm, Vera responded by leaping into the water helping to save lives. This is the true story about a dog adopted by the Coast Guard and became a hero through all her rescue efforts.
Fabulous illustrations.
Fabulous illustrations.
February 9, 2018
A unique animal story with fun personal connections to the author. Great message could be gleaned about everyone doing their part to make a difference.
December 8, 2018
How can one talented author/illustrator come up with so many unbelievably stirring stories? I love the way Patricia Polacco paces this one. We meet Vera the altruistic lifesaver dog, and mother of so many litters of puppies in the beginning, followed by learning about how Vera manages to save two near fatal disaters from occurring at sea, while saving many lives, it's unbelievable! Yet, Polacco's spirited illustrations of blustering Ol' Man screaming commands, while Vera acheives the impossible in these unsurmountable natural disasters, makes for a thrilling read. I met Patricia Polacco years ago when she visited our school. The one thing that I personally found most memorable was the photo of her with her grandson at Vera's Grave on Goverment Island in the Bay Area. Seeing her holding her grandson's hand and reading that this was her second grandchild made me smile. When we spoke with her years ago, it was evident that having a grandchild was what she wanted most of all. It is heartwarming to read her Author's Note, and learn that her dream came true.
January 30, 2018
Awesome story based on true facts! This is good way to promote adoption of homeless animals, although they should have been a little more responsible and have dog fixed. But still heartwarming story!
October 25, 2017
Kids are sure to love this heart-warming and inspirational read.
Vera was a stray dog and found by some members of the Coast Guard. The men enjoyed having her around and loved her right away. When a storm threatens the lives on another boat and there's no way to save them, Vera comes to the rescue and proves that there's more to a dog than a loving pet.
Taken from a real life event, this book guarantees to grab the interest of young readers—nothing is better than things which really happened. And Vera is a hero worthy of her own story. Not only is she a sweet dog, which automatically draws sympathy, but her courage and determination demands attention. The author brings her story to life in an exciting way, keeping up a quick pace while still allowing the reader to fall in love with Vera first. Listeners/readers will cheer for her as she proves that heroes come in all sizes and shapes, and tense on the edge of their seats as things don't run as smoothly as they could. There's love, there's adventure and there's moments which pull at the heart. It's a great mixture and sure to please.
The writing isn't for the youngest listener and is more fitting for ages 6 and up. Some terminology is taken from the Coast Guard and will need clarification, which is fun all on its own. The ending also touches upon a tear-jerking moment, which might affect more sensitive listeners. It's a book, which isn't only informative in a fun, interesting way, but it also leaves the listener/reader with emotions for afterthought.
The illustrations are a treat and pull into the story. They balance out the plot and place the emphasis where it's needed. The text is placed well, allowing the pictures to come to life around the words. There are quite a few exclamation-points, and one or two other grammatical errors. The narrative also switches its tone abruptly during the last pages as the author jumps in and tells the tale from her view after the point when she met Vera. This is also why I'm giving it 4 instead of 5 stars.
Summed up, this is a lovely book which takes a real-life event and brings it to life in a fun and engaging way. Kids are sure to fall in love with Vera, be touched by her story and think about her long after the last page is read.
I received a complimentary copy and find the tale so touching and inspirational that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.
Vera was a stray dog and found by some members of the Coast Guard. The men enjoyed having her around and loved her right away. When a storm threatens the lives on another boat and there's no way to save them, Vera comes to the rescue and proves that there's more to a dog than a loving pet.
Taken from a real life event, this book guarantees to grab the interest of young readers—nothing is better than things which really happened. And Vera is a hero worthy of her own story. Not only is she a sweet dog, which automatically draws sympathy, but her courage and determination demands attention. The author brings her story to life in an exciting way, keeping up a quick pace while still allowing the reader to fall in love with Vera first. Listeners/readers will cheer for her as she proves that heroes come in all sizes and shapes, and tense on the edge of their seats as things don't run as smoothly as they could. There's love, there's adventure and there's moments which pull at the heart. It's a great mixture and sure to please.
The writing isn't for the youngest listener and is more fitting for ages 6 and up. Some terminology is taken from the Coast Guard and will need clarification, which is fun all on its own. The ending also touches upon a tear-jerking moment, which might affect more sensitive listeners. It's a book, which isn't only informative in a fun, interesting way, but it also leaves the listener/reader with emotions for afterthought.
The illustrations are a treat and pull into the story. They balance out the plot and place the emphasis where it's needed. The text is placed well, allowing the pictures to come to life around the words. There are quite a few exclamation-points, and one or two other grammatical errors. The narrative also switches its tone abruptly during the last pages as the author jumps in and tells the tale from her view after the point when she met Vera. This is also why I'm giving it 4 instead of 5 stars.
Summed up, this is a lovely book which takes a real-life event and brings it to life in a fun and engaging way. Kids are sure to fall in love with Vera, be touched by her story and think about her long after the last page is read.
I received a complimentary copy and find the tale so touching and inspirational that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts.
January 16, 2018
Polacco has a gift for telling stories of great depth and emotion and this one is no different. A sweet story about the power of one small dog to make a difference in the lives of thousands.
January 7, 2018
Patricia Polacco certainly knows how to tell a story. This book is a telling of a real incident of the Coast Guard adopting a stray dog. Can't resist dog stories, even though we know what will happen....
January 3, 2018
This real life story of a dog working with the coast guard made m cry. one on one or elementary
December 15, 2017
Patricia Polacco's stories are always so heartwarming and sweet and this story is no exception. Coast Guard serviceman Davie Bunch finds a puppy, but knows that he won't be allowed to have her. Thus he keeps and hides her, naming her after his favorite Aunt Vera. Vera remains a secret until she makes a daring rescue and becomes a hero. I loved how like many other of Polacco's books, this was based on true story. Read Polacco's author's note for her connection to the story and an update. You can see the warmth in Polacco's illustration and story.
October 23, 2017
I saw Patricia Polacco speak a few years ago. Even in a big crowd, she tells stories as if you’re sitting right beside her in a cozy room. This time, she tells of a little dog who became a hero in the Coast Guard. Now, dogs are not supposed to be on ships, but this wee yellow dog, discovered by a serviceman who fell in love immediately, managed to sneak who became Vera, and the story connects twice with Patricia Polacco. She’s lived an interesting life, and I’m so glad she shares her stories. The pictures are lively as always, and this will make a beautiful readaloud.
November 17, 2017
This is an amazing story of a dog who became a sort of mascot for one Coast Guard unit. She helped with rescues, too. The story is touching and inspiring.
Although a little on the wordy side, it is a great story. But more imporantly, the story is written in such a way that will be completely understood and relatable for children. The illustrations are very expressive.
Although a little on the wordy side, it is a great story. But more imporantly, the story is written in such a way that will be completely understood and relatable for children. The illustrations are very expressive.
May 9, 2019
Remembering Vera is a childen's book written by Patricia POLACCO, an American author, in 2017.
This is the story of a puppy named Vera who was found by sailors on the deck of the boat. They decide to keep her while navigating.
The readers will discover why it was a brilliant idea to take Vera with them...
It's such an amazing story !
This is the story of a puppy named Vera who was found by sailors on the deck of the boat. They decide to keep her while navigating.
The readers will discover why it was a brilliant idea to take Vera with them...
It's such an amazing story !
October 26, 2017
I am a sucker for dog stories and this story was a great true story of Vera the Coast Guard dog. I loved the author's note in the back that gave us some more information on the story. I can't wait to share this with my students!
October 29, 2017
Patricia Polacco is my favorite children's author and she never seems to run out of amazing stories to tell. This one will just make your heart melt.
October 30, 2017
How lovely this book is about about a special hero dog who became a part of the U.S. Coast Guard. This is a true story that the author herself witnessed. 😍
October 31, 2017
Polacco tells, as only she can, the real story of an amazing dog, Vera. Precious, just precious. See the author's notes in the front and back of the book.
October 31, 2017
Another heartwarming tale from this great author! This is a touching story based on a true story about a dog who becomes a Coast Guard hero!
November 1, 2017
As always, Patricia Polacco hits you right in the heart with a wonderful, beautiful story.
November 9, 2017
Wonderful story and illustrations
Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews