Zeus: Water Rescue
by W. Bruce Cameron
Do you know a kid who loves dogs? They just might be interested in Zeus: Water Rescue. Written for Middle Grade children, this book shares the story of Zeus, a puppy who watches his littermates find new homes while he is left desperately wanting a person of his own. It is charmingly told from Zeus’ point of view as the puppy tries to understand what the people are doing and to please them.
In Hawaii, Marco pieces a living together between jobs focusing on Search and Rescue and as an Emergency Responder. He especially needs the income he receives when he trains a dog in water rescue and sells it in Europe. Not many dogs are right for the job especially when they are given the final test—jumping from a helicopter.
Kimo lives with his dad Marco and his grandmother and wants a puppy of his own as much as Zeus wants a boy of his own. Because of the financial need to sell a trained dog, even if Kimo can train the rambunctious Zeus, there doesn’t seem to be a way forward for the pair to stay together. Kimo’s cousin Giana is smart and not intimidated by adults. She helps Kimo in his efforts to keep Zeus. Their banter is fun and lightens the sadness that naturally occurs as the impending separation looms on the horizon.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Rating: 4/5
Category: Children’s Fiction
Notes: #1 in the series Dogs with a Purpose
Publication: September 26, 2023—Tor Publishing Group
Memorable Lines:
“Giana’s the only person in history to be kicked off the debate team for arguing,” Kimo informed me.
I could feel some of the fear leaving her as I lay there, so I didn’t try to change position. Having a dog nearby always makes things better.
I did not know why he had shouted Bear’s name. Bear obviously wasn’t here. Anyone could smell that.
education pathways 
My grandgirls would love this book as their dog Max looks just like Zeus. Thank you for the review.
Happy weekend to you.
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What a fun coincidence! I hope they enjoy it if they get a chance to read it. I hope you have a nice weekend too!
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It sounds like a sweet story!
Jenna
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It is sweet, and definitely written for young people to enjoy.
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This Nancy also has grandgirls with a dog similar in features to Zeus, although more taffy-colored than dark brown! I wrote down the title and author so I can recommend this book to them. Thank you, Linda!
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Two Nancy’s with granddaughters with similar dogs! I hope your grandgirls enjoy it if they get a chance to read it
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Sounds like a great dog story! I’m always afraid to read dog stories if their is going to be tragedy. It makes me too sad. This one sounds like a hopeful story.
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I know what you mean. Some of the best dog stories just leave you in tears. This one has some tension in it as to the future of Zeus and Kimo, but I guarantee no tears.
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All my grandkids would like this one Linda. Yesterday we celebrated my grandsons 6 year old birthday and I bought him 14 books. I had him pick one for me to read to him while I was there. He picked “How to Catch a Monster”. The book was in rhymes and one page was devoted to the monster farting. 🤣
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Diane, what a wonderful grandmother you are! You know I love books, and there is nothing more fun for me than reading to kids. How to Catch a Monster sounds great. Bodily sounds and smells are so appealing to little boys!😂
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This sounds like a great story. I believe I have this one on my kindle. My grandkids are coming over on the weekend. I’m going to see if my oldest (11 YO) might like to read this one. Wonderful review. I love that first quote!
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Your grandson might enjoy it. I had forgotten that the intended audience was kids, and as I read it that became apparent.
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I love reading books geared for children, MG and YA. They still make me think.
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