Reading Metrics
Description
Mary finds a wolf pup which her father does not want her to keep until the pup alerts him to a chicken-stealing coyote. A Canadian Library Association Book of the Year for Children.
Quick Summary
Looking for a short, heart-warming read that mixes a bit of farm adventure with a dash of suspense? Mary of Mile 18 follows a prairie girl who discovers a tiny wolf pup and has to convince her skeptical dad that the pup is more than just a pet when the pup's keen ears alert the family to a chicken-stealing coyote, the dad finally sees its value. The story is gentle, a little funny, and only gets a little tense during the coyote showdown, so it's perfect for kids who love animals but might be spooked by really scary plots. At around 2,000 words, it's an easy chapter-book or bedtime-story length that works well for early readers or as a read-aloud for younger kids, and its simple language and cozy prairie setting make it especially appealing to animal lovers and reluctant readers alike. Parents will appreciate the subtle message about responsibility and trusting your instincts, and there's a nice Canadian flavor plus the book won the Canadian Library Association's Book of the Year for Children award. If your child liked the classic farm-animal-proves-its-worth story of Babe, they'll find a similarly sweet, kid-powered adventure in Mary's tale.