Maggie and Shine

Nikki Tate-Stratton writes novels for preteens; her latest books are
Jessa Be Nimble, Rebel Be Quick; Raven’s Revenge; and Tarragon Island.

When 11-year-old Maggie and her parents take a job herding sheep for the
summer, the whole family packs up the camper and heads for the high
mountain valleys where grazing is good. At first, Maggie is furious her
parents would consider dragging her away from her friends into the
middle of nowhere. As the summer progresses, Maggie finds solace in her
growing bond with Shine, one of the rented sheepdogs with whom she
shares her days. Wilderness adventures abound as the family copes with
sudden storms, bears, cougars, and other challenges of life in the
wilderness. The biggest struggles, however, are internal. As Maggie’s
confidence grows and she learns to appreciate the beauty and power of
her mountain surroundings, she becomes determined to return the
following summer with Shine at her side.

Luanne Armstrong explores the special bond between children and animals
in this hi-lo novel for students in Grades 4 through 6. Maggie’s
attachment to Shine is real, and readers will care whether or not Maggie
will manage to find a way to keep the dog who becomes her constant
companion during the summer. The author has created a family that
reflects back-to-the-land ideals and offers a glimpse into a lifestyle
unfamiliar to most urban dwellers. At times, the dialogue is a little
forced and the parenting speeches a bit heavy-handed, but generally,
Maggie is an appealing character whose summer adventures, though
unusual, are believable. Recommended.