The Bravest Dog Ever: The True Story of Balto (Step-Into-Reading)

The story of the heroic dog team that got desperately needed medicine from Anchorage to Nome, Alaska, during a 1925 diphtheria epidemic. The writing is greatly simplified for beginning readers, but still engages adults with the gripping tale of a relay of dog sleds, nearly disastrous mishaps, a blizzard, and the final 53-mile run that Gunnar and his lead dog Balto accomplish. The story (although not this version) been made into a movie which is great for family viewing.

I liked this book! First, the non-fiction text features are engaging, and helpful to readers. For example, the illustrator included a map of Alaska that included the names of the cities Balto had visited. Second, I liked the plot. The plot was engaging because it was a true story and allowed readers to really connect with Balto. For example, the author starts with, "This is a true story about a very brave dog." The main message of this story is to work hard, and never give up.

This book is a true story about the sled dog, Balto, who ran for 20 hours, 53 miles through snow to deliver medicine to the sick children of Nome. Because of Balto's heroism he ended up saving many children's lives and has a statue made after him in Central Park in NY.

This book could be good for readers of 2nd-4th grade because it is a very fun story with slightly more complicated wording than a 1st grader might read.

In my classroom, I would use this book to teach about heroes and how going the extra mile to turn in your best work is rarely fun. It's hard but it comes with great rewards (such as learning more, quicker).

This book is a non-fiction story told in a very engaging way. To me, it was much more engaging than a typical show more informational book. show less

It is one of the worst storms ever - the snow has not stopped for days and it is 30 degrees below zero. But somehow Balto must get through. He is the lead dog of his sled team. And he is carrying medicine to sick children miles away in Nome, Alaska. He is their only hope. Can Balto find his way through the terrible storm? Find out in this exciting true story!

This book is a great example of a legend, because the story of the heroic dog, Balto, has been told for centuries. The story is very relatable, because readers are easily captured in the fast paced nature of a dog leading the way to save a life.

Age Appropriateness: Intermediate

Media: Colored Pencil

Good book. Looks pretty accurate for the story and also mentions that there were other teams.

When two children in Nome get Diptheria, they have to get medicine quickly or they will die and half the town will catch it, but the trains can’t get there from Anchorage. Many teams of sled dogs begin a relay to get the medicine from where it is stuck on a train to Nome, but it is Balto’s team that does the work of two teams, driving non-stop for twenty hours.