by Helen Moss
Published Nov. 2023
Godwin Books
Hardcover
192 Pages
Historical Fiction
Middle Grade
Review copy provided by publisher
Goodreads Summary
It's the winter of 1924 and a diptheria outbreak is threatening the population of Nome, Alaska. The only way to stop the deadly illness from causing a full blown epidemic is to immediately deliver one million units of the diptheria antitoxin to the affected communities ––a task that seems impossible given that the only way to reach any place in Alaska at this time of year is by dog sled. The stakes are high, and the snow is piling higher. Will the antitoxin make it in time? Or will the infection spread faster than they can treat it...Follow along as Balto and Togo lead the way in this race against time to get the antitoxin and save lives.
My Thoughts
The story of Balto is one that many children, and adults have heard before. There are many books on the heroic sled dog delivering medicine to Nome Alaska, but most focus almost solely on Balto, the brave sled dog. In this story, the reader gets a clearer picture of the tremendous collective efforts that were necessary in making this mission a success. While Balto is the most famous of the dogs, we learn about various sled mushers and dogs and the challenges they face. In particular we learn about Togo, a smart and strong lead dog who keeps his team on track.
Moss has researched the event well and includes important and interesting details that will have readers on the edge of their seats. She included discussions between the dogs that she imagined they would have had as they forged on in subzero weather. This dialogue makes the story even more interesting.
I will definitely be adding this books to my school library.
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Here is some more info on Togo if you are interested.
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