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 |
NOTE: |
The Reviewer |
Beverly J. Rowe |
Reviewed 2006 |
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