About the Book:
A girl, her dog, and the list that saved them...
As
World War II enters her backyard, a young girl tries to keep her family
together and cope with the war by completing a bucket list with her
best friend: her dog Happy. Featuring a dog’s POV and inspired by
real-life experiences of a young Pearl Harbor survivor, this historical
middle-grade novel will inspire readers 8-12 to find courage in any
situation.
It’s 1940, and Jody is moving with her military family
yet again—this time to a small naval base in Pearl Harbor. She’s always
created a “top ten” list for each new home to help her adjust, and with
Hawaii being so beautiful and her loyal dog Happy by her side, it’s
easy to find things to add.
But Jody’s mom is convinced the
island is dangerous and starts constantly practicing first aid. Jody
also learns that Happy is beginning to slow down. To cope, she starts a
list of fun things they can do together, like journeying to a Fountain
of Youth. “Operation: Happy” gives her something to focus on beyond the
scary new experiences, like air raid drills and Yellow Fever
vaccinations.
Before long, everyone’s worst fears come true:
Pearl Harbor is attacked. In the aftermath, Jody’s father must stay
behind as the rest of the family is evacuated, and Jody promises him she
will keep everyone together. But things are hard in San Francisco,
where she feels like an outsider. Worse, her mother has become
depressed, and Jody worries she and her sister will have to go to an
orphanage. With Happy by her side, Jody hatches a brave plan to keep the
family safe … Will Operation: Happy see them through?
My Review:
What a touching read from a unique perspective. I really like the sentiment for this story line so I was really intrigued to see what would happen. Its a middle grade novel but as a mom of young kiddos or once young kiddos it was interesting to say the list.
Some may say that it is a little too dark or deep for the age group, but I disagree. In real life there is tragedy period. But in the lives of military children this is something they are faced with every day.
I loved Jody and the dog, Happy. I feel that these two characters carried the story well and I was glad to meet them.
**Disclosure**This book was sent to me free of charge for my honest review from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
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