Step into the tail-wagging world of Dog Diaries, where history’s most famous dogs take center stage to share their pawsome adventures! Written by Kate Klimo and brought to life with Tim Jessell’s vivid illustrations, this middle-grade series blends historical fiction with canine charm, offering young readers a unique dog’s-eye view of the past. From heroic sled dogs to presidential pups, Dog Diaries captures the heart and imagination with stories that educate, entertain, and inspire empathy for our four-legged friends.
Perfect for reluctant readers and dog lovers alike, the series invites kids aged 7–10 to explore history through the loyal companions who witnessed it. Whether it’s a golden retriever escaping a puppy mill or a corgi hobnobbing with royalty, each book delivers a blend of humor, heart, and historical facts that makes learning a joy.
How Dog Diaries Began
Kate Klimo, a former Random House Children’s Books publisher turned full-time author, launched Dog Diaries in 2013 with a passion for animals and storytelling. Inspired by her own experiences with eight beloved dogs and her love for fantasy, Klimo wanted to create a series that would hook young readers on historical fiction. Partnering with award-winning illustrator Tim Jessell, she crafted a series that tells true or true-to-life stories from the perspectives of different dog breeds, each tied to a historical figure or event. The result? A franchise that’s as educational as it is enchanting, published by Random House Books for Young Readers.
The Heart of Dog Diaries
Each Dog Diaries book spotlights a unique breed and a slice of history, weaving adventure with factual appendices for added learning. In Ginger (Book 1), a golden retriever narrates her journey from a puppy mill to finding a forever home, shedding light on animal welfare. Togo (Book 4) recounts the 1925 Alaskan serum run through the eyes of the unsung Siberian husky hero who outshone Balto, offering a thrilling tale of bravery. Fido (Book 13) follows Abraham Lincoln’s loyal mutt, revealing the president’s love for animals alongside Civil War-era insights. Susan (Book 12) dishes royal secrets as Queen Elizabeth II’s corgi, blending humor with British history.
The series’ themes of loyalty, resilience, and empathy shine through every story, encouraging kids to see the world through a dog’s perspective. Jessell’s realistic black-and-white illustrations add depth, capturing each breed’s personality and the historical settings, from icy Alaskan trails to the White House. The light, conversational tone and fast-paced plots make these books ideal for young readers who might shy away from traditional historical fiction, while the focus on diverse breeds keeps each tale fresh and engaging.
Why Dog Diaries Resonates
Dog Diaries has carved a niche in children’s literature by making history accessible and fun. Parents and educators praise its ability to sneak in lessons about events like the Mayflower’s voyage or World War I while keeping kids hooked with adventurous dog narrators. Fans, from 8-year-old readers to grandparents, rave about the series’ emotional depth and historical accuracy, with reviews highlighting how books like Togo and Barry spark curiosity about real-life heroes. The series also fosters empathy, teaching kids to value animals and understand their roles in human history, making it a staple in classrooms and libraries.
Its lasting appeal lies in its universal love for dogs and its clever balance of education and entertainment. By centering stories on famous canines, Dog Diaries transforms dusty history into vibrant, relatable tales that resonate across generations.
- Publication Years: 2013–present
- Number of Books: 13+ (including special editions like Tiny Tim)
- Target Age: 7–10 years
- Illustrator Awards: Tim Jessell’s work earned the Society of Illustrators Gold Medal
Grab Ginger and dive into Dog Diaries’ heartwarming world of canine adventures! Whether you’re a history buff or a dog lover, these tales will have you howling for more.