Level 1: Starting to Read  Simple stories Increased vocabulary Longer sentencesNorman is a dog who cannot see. One day, he is at the beach. He hears a girl in the water calling for help. Can a blind dog save someone's life?
Norman, a blind Labrador retriever, saves a girl from drowning in the ocean.
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School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 3-Clements tells a compelling story in an easy-to-read format. After the McDonalds adopted Norman from an animal shelter, they found out that the dog was going blind. Norman's disability was worrisome at first, but once the family adjusted, Norman did too. He was even a hero in the end. There is just enough action to hold young readers' attention as the story comes to its climax. Beier's soft, comfy watercolors complement the message of family loyalty and potential. Even though the pet is handicapped, and taking care of him is more work, the family members adore him, and he, in turn, thrives despite his limitations. Children will be charmed by this lovable pooch and his ability to overcome his obstacles and help others.-Holly T. Sneeringer, St. Mark School, Baltimore, MD (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Booklist Review
Gr. 1-2. A blind dog saves a child and becomes a hero in this Ready-to-Read title. Rescued from the pound, golden retriever Norman adores his new family. When he starts to go blind, the family continues to love and support him, taking him often to the beach where he can run freely without bumping into things. That's where he hears a drowning girl, swims to her rescue, and becomes a local celebrity. The gripping, sentimental story, perfectly paced and worded for new readers, will compel children to complete the text on their own, and Beier's appealing, realistic watercolor illustrations show Norman in all his tongue-wagging, compassionate charm. A great choice for animal lovers. --Gillian Engberg
Horn Book Review
Despite having lost his sight, Norman, a dog rescued from an animal shelter, saves the life of a young swimmer. Animal lovers who are just starting to read will enjoy the story of NormanÆs transformation from the dog that no one wanted to a true animal hero. The accompanying color illustrations lack the text's inherent drama. From HORN BOOK Spring 2002, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
TextPublication details: New York : Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, c2001.Description: 32 p. : col. ill. ; 24 cmISBN: