Remembering Vera

Written and illustrated by Patricia Polacco

A stray dog becomes a Coast Guard hero during a daring sea rescue.

4.3 Goodreads · 356 ratings

32 pages· 2,028 words· Est. 16 min read-aloud· AD780L

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In 1962, a stray dog named Vera is discovered by seaman Dave Bunch at a Coast Guard base. Initially hidden from the Commander, Vera wins the hearts of the crew. When a vessel is endangered by high waves, Vera's bravery and swimming skills save the day, transforming her into a hero and beloved mascot. How did this stray become an indispensable part of the Coast Guard family?

From the publisher

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.

At a glance