Modern wars recruit more than just human soldiers. Our canine companions also serve in the line of duty and under fire, whether helping police protect our home turf or accompanying soldiers on missions abroad. This collection features dogs profiled for their bravery, friendship, heroism, and devotion.

One evening in January 2010, an 11-year-old boy named Austin went outside to collect firewood in the backyard of his home. As he got closer to the woodshed, he saw a large animal with round ears and large teeth. Luckily, Austin had brought his golden retriever, Angel, with him. Suddenly, the animal—a ferocious cougar—leapt at Austin. Angel sprang into action and bravely jumped in front of the cougar to protect the boy. Austin then raced inside to get help as Angel and the cougar fought. The brave-hearted canine had saved her owner’s life! In this inspiring book, young readers will meet a variety of courageous dogs willing to risk their lives to protect their human companions—from a pit bull that saved her owner from dangerous robbers to a German shepherd-wolf mix that dragged her elderly owners to safety during a snowstorm. Packed with real-life stories and dramatic, full-color photos of these remarkable animals, this book is sure to be a favorite of dog-lovers everywhere.

In times of war, these brave dogs serve their country proudly

Help children develop the attitudes and skills of courage and assertiveness in order to make wise choices and work through challenges. Children learn to do what they think is right and be brave, even if it’s hard. They learn to distinguish between expectations set by trusted adults and hurtful, wrong, or dangerous things adults or children might pressure them to do. The book also highlights trying new things, taking reasonable risks, and speaking up. Being the Best Me!® Series From the author of the popular Learning to Get Along® books comes a one-of-a-kind character-development series. Each of the first six books in the Being the Best Me! series helps children learn, understand, and develop attitudes and positive character traits that strengthen self-confidence and a sense of purpose. Each book focuses on a specific attitude or character trait—optimism, self-esteem, assertiveness, resilience, integrity, and forgiveness. Also included are discussion questions, games, activities, and additional information for adults. Filled with diversity, these social story books will be welcome in school, home, and childcare settings.

Omar Rivera, an office worker who is blind, and his guide dog, Salty, were on the 71st story of the World Trade Center’s North Tower on the morning of September 11, 2001 when terrorists hijacked two planes and crashed them into the World Trade Center towers. Omar’s coworkers raced to the stairway to escape the burning building. With chaos all around, Omar told his dog to guide him down the stairs. Would Salty be able to lead his owner to safety? In this book, young readers will meet the brave dogs that helped people during and after the deadly terrorist attack. From guide dogs that calmly led their owners to safety, to the 300 search-and-rescue dogs that used their powerful sense of smell to try to find survivors in the rubble, these incredible animals were part of the largest canine rescue operation in U.S. history. With true stories and full-color photographs of dogs working at Ground Zero, this book is sure to appeal to dog lovers everywhere.

"Paws and Wings" invites young readers on an enchanting journey into the world of animals, where furry companions and feathered friends become our guides to understanding compassion and courage. Through a collection of heartwarming poems, each verse offers a glimpse into the profound lessons taught by these beloved creatures. From a loyal dog to graceful birds, every page reveals the depth of connection between humans and animals, inspiring young readers to embrace empathy, kindness, and bravery in their own lives. Whether it's a comforting purr or a soaring flight, these poems celebrate the extraordinary bond that exists between us and the animal kingdom, reminding us that true courage and compassion can be found in the most unexpected places.

When twelve-year-old Dylan rescues Brave, he knows it will take hard work, patience, and training to convince his parents that he can keep the skittish stray dog.