BIBLIOGRAPHY
Larson, Kirby. 2016. Dash. New York, NY: Scholastic Press. ISBN 9780545416351
PLOT SUMMARY
Set just after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Mitsi Kashino, a Japanese American girl, is separated from her dog when her family is sent to an incarceration camp. All Americans of Japanese descent are treated with disdain - bullied, ostracized, and removed from their homes. Misti is forced to leave her dog, Dash, behind in the care of a neighbor since pets are not allowed in the sparse living conditions of the camp. Misti tries to obtain permission from the General for her dog to join her, but she is denied. Just when her family begins to adjust to life in one camp, they are shipped off to another camp in Idaho and left to wonder if they will ever see their home and their beloved Dash ever again.
CRITICAL ANALYSIS
Despite the grim and true circumstances present during the time period, Larson write a historical fiction novel that can be enjoyed by all. Based on an actual letter written to General DeWitt by Mitsue Shiaishi whose dog had to be left behind, Dash is a story of bravery, courage, and patriotism in a time of great despair.
REVIEW EXCERPT(S)
After Pearl Harbor, Mitsi Kashino's family has to go live in a "camp." Worse, her beloved dog, Dash, isn't allowed to accompany them. Luckily, elderly neighbor Mrs. Bowker takes Dash in. When amusing letters "from Dash" start arriving at camp, they help Mitsi make friends and spread happiness. A companion novel to Duke, Dash is another diverting wartime dog story. - Horn Book Guide, 2015
Newbery Honor author Kirby Larson presents the heartrending story of Mitsi Kashino, a young Japanese girl whose world is turned upside down following the bombing of Pearl Harbor. Anti-Japanese sentiments force the incarceration of her family. Worst of all is her separation from Dash, her beloved dog who stuck by her through all of the difficulties. Though her family has lost their home, will they lose their sense of family? Larson deftly weaves heart and history, and gives young readers a sense of what it felt like to live during this period. Dash is a character that will resonate with dog lovers, and the kindly neighbor will reassure readers that kindness thrives in harsh conditions. - Library Media Connection, 2015
CONNECTIONS
This story would be a great conversation starter regarding patriotism and perseverance.
Dogs of World War 2 is a series by this author, so a great companion for a novel study is her other title, Duke.
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