Book reviews: Teaching kids compassion for animals
The Cemetery Dogs by Alicia Schwartz. Warren Publishing, 2025. Hardcover, 34 pages.
Life isn’t easy for two stray dogs, but a little compassion can go a long way as young children will discover in animal advocate Alicia Schwartz’s lovely picture book, The Cemetery Dogs.
Having learned that two dogs live in a cemetery near a busy road, Olivia and Isabella, little girls with a love of animals, persuade their parents to aid in the dogs’ rescue. With snow forecasted — and a few more canines than originally thought to be living in the cemetery — the family works together to rescue and find a home for the dogs.
Based on a true story about two dogs the author and her family rescued, The Cemetery Dogs (aimed at the 5 to 7 age group) is a story to be read time and time again.
FeatherQuest by featherquest.com. 2025.
A description of the book FeatherQuest takes as much time and contemplation as does the concept behind this birding activity book. While traditional birding has focused on lists and specific sightings, FeatherQuest offers an intriguing alternative approach for individual birders and families.
Incorporating activities and seasonal challenges over the span of a year in Utah, the book — composed of 52 looks at birds in a backyard or farther out in the natural world — ushers everyone into a journey that will enlighten and educate. Although anyone can embark on an individual quest into the world of birds, this book can also serve as an introduction for children to a closer relationship with birds and nature.
Are you the author or publisher of a book about animals that you would like considered for review? Please send the details to editor@bestfriends.org.
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