Duke

Written by Kirby Larson

Part of the Dogs of World War II series

A boy sacrifices his dog to aid the war effort, but can he bear the cost?

4.2 Goodreads · 1,866 ratings

240 pages· 38,455 words· Est. 5.5 hour read· 540L

$8.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In the midst of World War II, eleven-year-old Hobie Hanson faces a heart-wrenching choice: donate his cherished dog, Duke, to aid the military. As his father fights overseas, Hobie hopes this sacrifice will hasten the war's end. But when Duke is trained for combat, Hobie's regret grows, threatening his friendships and testing his courage. With his father captured by the enemy, Hobie must confront the true meaning of bravery. Can he let go of Duke and hold onto hope? Will his family ever be whole again?

From the publisher

A poignant World War II story about a boy and his dog and his dad, and the many meanings of bravery, from Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson. Now in paperback!With World War II raging and his father fighting overseas in Europe, eleven-year-old Hobie Hanson is determined to do his part to help his family and his country, even if it means giving up his beloved German shepherd, Duke. Hoping to help end the war and bring his dad home faster, Hobie decides to donate Duke to Dogs for Defense, an organization that urges Americans to “loan” their pets to the military to act as sentries, mine sniffers, and patrol dogs. Hobie immediately regrets his decision and tries everything he can to get Duke back, even jeopardizing his friendship with the new boy at school. But when his father is taken prisoner by the Germans, Hobie realizes he must let Duke go and reach deep within himself to be brave. Will Hobie ever see Duke, or his father, again? Will life ever be the same?

At a glance