Review: Bush Rescue (Pup Patrol #2)

James Barnaby, Stamp his Border Collie, and Ace, a mongrel, are in the Fourby headed towards the town of Jasper. Without their knowing, they are headed towards more disruption and learning experiences. Ace is in a pet carrier, whining and driving everyone crazy with her complaining. On this trip she will advance in her attempt to fit in with the Barnaby family, when she proves valuable in a difficult situation.

James has bought a two-way radio to use in an emergency. Bush fires in the area put all the pets in danger. A Mitchell cockatoo flies in through their window and this leads them on their second adventure against the force of nature.

They stop at Doc Jenkins’ Vet surgery to find the cockatoo’s owner but adjust to being needed again as fires are now out of control. Pets are everywhere trying to get to safety. Falling trees, burnt houses and sheds have forced owners to free them.  Doc has housed as many as possible.

James gets to work trying to find the straying pets and bring them in, away from danger. He checks collars for names, and lists each animal so owners can claim them later.

The bad-mannered Ace continues to be bothersome. Stamp, an astute and intelligent dog, is always helpful. His ability to communicate with other animals and then with James, creates a harmonious working partnership. But Ace’s temporarily addition has made things complicated. She is jealous of the relationship and demands to be part of it. What will happen when it is time to stay at Pepper Plains Farm?

The dogs’ voices tell us what they are thinking with Stamp narrating the happenings. This is the second instalment in this terrific little series for early readers that puts working dogs in a lead role. Once again, Stamp’s Glossary in each chapter clarifies words and phrases that appear in bold print. This enables children to learn new language, while being entertained and informed about working dogs’ lives and abilities.

Themes of friendship, kindness, patience, relationships between humans and animals, and community involvement are the major objectives of each title. The setting and challenge changes. These delightful chapter books will draw reluctant or difficult readers.

There are now three books available in the Pup Patrol series: Farm Rescue, Bush Rescue and Storm Rescue.

Title: Bush Rescue (Pup Patrol #2)
Author: Darrel and Sally Odgers
Illustrator: Janine Dawson
Publisher: Scholastic Press, $9.99 RRP
Publication Date: March 2015
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781743623008
For ages: 6+
Type: Junior Fiction