Tails from History: A Puppy for Helen Keller shows how the author, May Nakamura, is obviously a fan of their subject. You can tell how admired Keller was in her quest for peace, you can Nakamura likes dogs and of course the Akita breed and you can tell she admires the Japanese people and land. But also, you get a fun story about a small slice of a person who was a trailblazer on so many levels. This, perhaps little-known part of Keller’s life, was refreshing and made me want to learn a little more about this part of her life.
Of course, due to the age the book is aimed at (first and low second grade) there is not the detail other books on the subject would have. However, it is a good book about introducing the people, places and dog breed to children. It would be a good companion to a classroom studying Helen Keller, dogs, Japan or history of World War II (or more specifically, the years leading up to it). The facts at the back about the breed and Helen Keller tie in nicely with the actual story.
Rachel Sanson adds to the story with illustrations that are cozy. You enjoy looking at them, enjoy finding details and enjoy how the compliment the text. While, I like them, they are not “OMG my favorite illustrations of all time” but do appreciate the effort of the artist and the contribution to the story.
A Puppy for Helen Keller is one of a series about different animals and how they shaped art, history and more.