Liberty

Can saving a stray dog allow one boy to save himself?

Fish has a knack for inventing. His annoying neighbor Olympia has a knack for messing things up. But when his latest invention leads Fish to Liberty, a beautiful stray dog who needs a home, he and Olympia work together to rescue her.

As Fish enlists the help of unexpected friends and allies to save Liberty, he finds his perceptions of the world – of race and war, family and friendship – transformed.

Awards

  • Horned Toad Tales Award

Liberty

Can saving a stray dog allow one boy to save himself?

Fish has a knack for inventing. His annoying neighbor Olympia has a knack for messing things up. But when his latest invention leads Fish to Liberty, a beautiful stray dog who needs a home, he and Olympia work together to rescue her.

As Fish enlists the help of unexpected friends and allies to save Liberty, he finds his perceptions of the world – of race and war, family and friendship – transformed.

Reviews

It’s New Orleans in the 1940s. Fish Elliott and his sister, Mo, are anxiously awaiting the return of their father from Europe and dreading the daily rounds of the telegram delivery boy. Whether it is a rabbit trap designed to save his neighbor’s victory garden or a contraption he uses to strengthen his polio-damaged leg, Fish loves to invent things. When he and his African-American neighbor Olympia find a stray hound, they are determined to take her in. But an unscrupulous neighbor steals [Liberty], and they need the help of a German POW to rescue her and her newborn pups. Larson once again creates an engaging story that is rich in historical details. Practically perfect”—Kirkus, starred review

“A slice-of-life tale for historical fiction fans and animal lovers alike.” —School Library Journal

“Kirby Larson is a master at writing historical fiction and Liberty is no exception.” —The Children’s War Blog