Do not let the size of this little book fool you in to thinking it is simple. Louis de Bernières has managed to fit so many elements into this book. One minute you are laughing, the next, crying. But never fear, since the mans' best friend is always around - Blue.

I haven’t actually read Red Dog (but have seen one of the films) and am glad I got to read this prior to the latter.
This is the prequel to Red Dog, who was originally known as Blue!
It follows the story of a young boy who is shipped off to the Australian Outback after coming into hard times with his parents.
He forms many strong relationships, particularly with his grand father and the dog he stumbled across; Blue.

I really loved the bonds that were created between Blue and Mick, and the artwork is gorgeous.
It’s just a really nice, easy going, coming of age story for all ages (and as a dog lover I could really appreciate it).

A simple enjoyable story. Main strength lies in the author giving the reader a real flavour of the hard life experienced by those farming in the Western Australian outback.