Dash (Dogs of World War II)

Kirby Larson does it again! Larson has the uncanny ability to find a fresh perspective on a well covered period of time. In her latest novel, Dash, Kirby Larson brings a new voice to the World War II discussion. A story often left untold in American history is that of the Japanese Americans after the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Larson introduces Mitsi Kashino and her family as they are caught up in the anti-Japanese sentiment that spread across the United States. As Mitsi returns to school after the New Year, she finds herself alone. Separated by her friends and classmates at school, Mitsi finds comfort in her dog Dash and an unlikely neighbor. Soon Mitsi and her family are forced into an incarceration camp. Leaving everything they owned behind, Mitsi is forced to leave Dash with her friendly neighbor. With the help of the neighbor and a surprise twist, Mitsi remains in contact with Dash. Even in the hardest of times, Dash's letters bring hope that the war will end and life can return to normal. This must read piece of historical fiction is sure to touch your heart. Dash will have you feeling outraged, grabbing a tissue, and reaching for the phone to call an old friend. Dash is a perfect follow up to Duke (another great new perspective from WW II) and must read for students who love dogs and historical fiction.

Easy to read/understand by my 10 yr old son. School suggested for him to read and he did well explaining back to his teacher.

This book was so good! My daughter really enjoyed this book, so she read it three times! This book also really sets a reminder for our generation, about how hard people had it back then, and we should never take what we have for granted. The main character Mitsi really is role model for children. I would deeply suggest it

Great book! My daughter read this for a Zoom book club with her friends! She enjoyed the book!!

My 10yo loves this book!

Fantastic author. Can't go wrong with anything from Kirby Larson! My daughter loves animals, so I nabbed this for her. We have read other titles from Kirby Larson now and impressed with her writing. She weaves in historical facts so the reader doesn't even realize he/she is learning!

The many historical aspects coupled with fiction make this a great book for younger readers. It gives insight into racism and consequences of fear and hatred fueled by ignorance and mass panic. As the reading choice for a book report, this book lends itself to interesting comparisons to present day situations.

I got this book for my 10 year old daughter for her Battle of the Books read. This book was favored by probably 80% of the group kids... out of the 20 books they read. It was my daughter's favorite.