In the fourth book of their Dog Chronicles series, Alison Hart and Michael G. Montgomery bring readers an exciting tale of friendship and loyalty. Leo, Dog of the Sea, is an action-packed and heartwarming story of a hardened old sea dog who learns that life can be much more than survival.

After three ocean voyages, Leo knows not to trust anyone but himself. But when he sets sail with Captain General Ferdinand Magellan on a journey to find a westward route to the Spice Islands, he develops new friendships with Magellan’s scribe, Pigafetta, and Marco, his page. Together, the three of them experience hunger and thirst, storms and doldrums, and mutinies and hostile, violent encounters. Will they ever find a safe passage and reach their destination?

This captivating historical fiction chapter book will satisfy any history- or dog-loving reader. Through a dog’s-eye view, children will learn fascinating details about life aboard a ship at a time when much of the ocean had not yet been navigated.  Extensive back matter includes information about the historical period and the role of dogs, as well as a bibliography and references for further reading.

Learn more about Leo, Dog of the Sea in the Discussion Guide and the Author Q&A!

Be sure to follow Leo on the blog tour! Dates and locations as follows:

Leo, Dog of the Sea is set to dock at most literary ports April 1, so keep a weathered eye open at your local library, indie bookstore, or Barnes & Noble! 

But what are some ways to use a title like this in the library, classroom, or home?

In addition to your favorite bloggers (like Two Writing Teachers, who include Beneath the Sun in their 10 Math and Science Topic Choice Mentors for read alouds and writing prompts) and Pinterest searches, the Peachtree website and blog shares some great resources, too.

We’ve shared a Teacher Guide for Beneath the Sun as well as Melissa Stewart’s other titles When Rain Falls  and Under the Snow. (Check out all of our Teacher Guides here.)  If you really want the book to come alive, consider doing a Readers Theater, script available here.

Stewart also shares a wealth of fabulous activities on her Science Clubhouse Website for teachers, librarians, booksellers, and homeschoolers, including a Teacher Guide and Mini Video Lesson. Speaking of your favorite bloggers, check out Stewart’s Celebrate Science Blog for innovative resources for teaching science and tips for writing nonfiction. She’s on Pinterest, too, and shares plenty of teaching ideas and resources for using the title in the classroom.

What are you favorite bloggers and resources?