During the cold northern nights of the Gold Rush, the Malamute saloon is thriving with activity. Dangerous Dan McGrew sits in the back playing cards and watching the beautiful lady Lou. But the atmosphere changes when a cold, dirty man walks into the bar, and starts eying Lou as well. The antagonism between Dan McGrew and the stranger boils over and they kill each other in a gunfight.

So much of this poem is left to the imagination. The illustrations give hints as to how someone might interpret this poem, but it’s up to the individual to think it through. I love that the content suggests the social life of men during the Gold Rush, and how the cold weather and hard work might have affected them psychologically. It is also interesting that this poem was in the children’s section of the library. While I have no issues with the adult-like content, I could see how parents would raise questions if their child brought this poem home. At the same time, however, this poem could be a great teaching tool for a social studies or history teacher.

Like most well-written poems, The Shooting of Dan McGrew is a great read aloud. It flows beautifully and it has almost a sing-song feel to it, which contrasts the dark nature of the story. This poem would be a great choice for a school poetry contest! ( )

An exciting tale told through Service's distinctive poetry and illustrated by Harrison's colourful pictures. Some content inappropriate for young readers.