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A Dog Called Leka

by Willard Manus



      Eighteen-year old American, Ben Edgeworth, had always accompanied his parents as they worked on the yachts of wealthy patrons, sailing in the Agean Sea. This time, they were sailing around the world, but Ben stayed on the island of Rhodes to finish high school. After an accident took both of Ben's parents, he decided to use the insurance money to build a catamaran of his own, and ferry tourists around on the Greek Islands. While he was building the boat, a hungry stray came around searching for scraps of food. At first, Ben doesn't want anything to do with the stray pup, but when the dog just won't take "no" for an answer, he and Ben bond with each other, and he names the dog Leka. The dog is a remarkable animal who learns quickly as the two of them sail among the Greek isles, making their living in various ways; selling sketches of Leka to the tourists, spear fishing, and other endeavors. The companionship they give to each other makes this an emotionally moving story that you will not forget.

The two face unexpected dangers on the sea including a terrible storm, kidnapping and wild animals. Manus portrays the beautiful Greek islands and the people accurately, and compellingly. I saw the Greek islands last summer for the first time, and this book shows me that I missed a great deal...I want to go back. He includes a map and glossary of nautical terms and Greek words in the back of the book. For kids who love adventure stories and animal stories, this book is highly recommended: with fast action, lovable characters, and an exciting plot.

The Book

Viveca Smith Publishing
July 30, 2006
Trade Paperback
0-9740551-3-1
Children/Fiction - Ages 8 to 18
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Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Beverly J. Rowe
Reviewed 2006
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© 2006 MyShelf.com