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I love love love this book! It actually made me tear up when I read it! I love how Luciano took in dogs and learned their personality to help each dog. I also couldn't believe the reasonings people gave up their dogs. I believe dogs are family, no matter what. It's that simple. I would love to see his act and support what he had done for these dogs. It is such a wonderful thing. ( )

Adorable! Heart-warming! Loved it!!! ( )

Recommended Ages: Gr. 2-4

Plot Summary: Luciano was a circus performer from a very young age, but after falling off the high wire, his performing days were over. Not willing to give up the circus, he went out in search of dogs that no one wanted, then trained them to perform with him. He looked at the dogs from their point of view and tried to capitalize on what they loved. Would a thief, runaway, and a dog that couldn't stop running in circles manage to attract and keep an audience?

Setting:

Characters:
Luciano Anastasini - grew up in a family of circus performers, couldn't perform after falling off a high wire
Bowser
Penny
Stick
Tyke
Cocoa

Recurring Themes: perseverance, dog training, unwanted, overcoming obstacles

Controversial Issues: none

Personal Thoughts:

Genre: informational text, more like biography of Luciano

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Activity: ( )

The story of Luciano's ten dogs will warm the heart of any reader. Dogs are different just like humans. With patience and the desire to help them be the kind of dog they are meant to be, Luciano has given them a life they can truly enjoy. He focuses on the traits that made them "owner-less", and turned them into positive things they can be recognized for. Giving up on a dog will not help anyone, but with time and effort they can shine like the talented star they were destined to be. Dogs are intelligent animals, we, the two-legged animals, just need to point them in the right direction to see it. ( )