Second only to reading a book by the pool or in a hammock, our favorite time for a good summer read is during a thunderstorm. Of course, the rain lends itself to a different kind of summer reading, and we have the perfect book. To mix up the summer reading lists, try some historical fiction.

Told from the perspective of Darling, a dog living during World War I, this wartime adventure begins when the British military asks for dogs to help the war effort, and Darling’s family reluctantly sends her to be trained as a mercy dog. Through gunfire and poisonous gases, it’s Darling’s job to find injured soldiers on the battlefield and fetch help from the medics. After saving the lives of numerous soldiers, Darling suddenly finds herself in need of rescue. Will she ever make it back to England?

Darling, Mercy Dog of World War I, the first installment in Alison Hart’s Dog Chronicles series, is a touching and exciting introduction to World War I. Darling’s story of bravery and devotion reminds readers that dogs can be so much more than pets.

Read an excerpt and take a look at the teacher’s guide for summer book club discussion questions and activity ideas!

Get Darling, Mercy Dog of World War I from your indie bookstore, Barnes & Noble, or Amazon! For more reading suggestions this summer, check out our summertime reading and summer-themed round-ups.