The world of children’s literature often brings heartwarming stories, and sometimes, these stories spark important conversations about real-world events. Such is the case with Dayna Lorentz’s “The Storm,” the first book in the “Dogs Of The Drowned City” series. This engaging novel, which follows a German Shepherd named Shep, not only captivates young readers but also offers a powerful springboard for discussing pet safety and preparedness during natural disasters.
[“The Storm” introduces readers to Shep, a loyal German Shepherd whose world is upended when his family is forced to evacuate their home due to an impending hurricane, leaving him behind. The publisher’s summary eloquently captures Shep’s initial confusion and burgeoning adventure: “When a hurricane forces his family to evacuate without him, Shep the German Shepard is confused. Where is his boy? Will he ever return? And what will Shep do in the meantime, now that the extra bowls of food — not to mention all those tasty things he found in the big cold box — are gone? Then another dog shows up at Shep’s window and convinces him to escape. There’s food outside, and a whole empty city to explore. Shep just wants to go home . . . but the adventure of a lifetime is just beginning.”
Shep is a compelling protagonist, his past as a former fight dog adding a layer of depth and vulnerability that resonates with readers. His struggles to navigate a city seemingly abandoned by humans and to interact with other dogs create a narrative filled with both suspense and emotional connection. While “The Storm” has been a popular read-aloud in some classrooms, its potential for broader educational use, particularly in conjunction with nonfiction accounts of pet ordeals during natural disasters, is significant.
Lorentz herself has shared that the inspiration for this series stemmed from a friend’s experience rescuing pets in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, as well as a documentary about lost pets following the storm. This real-world connection provides a natural bridge for educators to create impactful fiction-nonfiction pairings. For instance, a classroom activity could involve students writing persuasive letters to pet owners and emergency crews, advocating for improved pet evacuation plans. This exercise would encourage students to draw upon both the fictional narrative of “The Storm” and factual information from articles like “Saving Pets from Another Katrina” and “Will Your Animal Companions Be Protected in a Disaster?” to construct a well-reasoned plan. [cite:0, cite:1, cite:2]
Further resources for exploring this theme include articles such as “Katrina survivors upset over pets left behind” from NBC News, “7 Years After Katrina, New Orleans Is Overrun by Wild Dogs” from The Atlantic, and “The Dogs of Hurricane Katrina” from Modern Dog. These pieces offer deeper insights into the challenges and emotional toll faced by pets and their owners during major crises.
For those interested in learning more about “The Storm” and the subsequent books in the “Dogs of the Drowned City” series, as well as Lorentz’s young adult thriller series “No Safety in Numbers,” her website is an invaluable resource. Teachers and librarians in Vermont have the opportunity to invite Dayna Lorentz for in-person school or library visits, and friends from further afield can connect with her through virtual Skype visits. Following Dayna Lorentz on Twitter can also be beneficial, as she frequently shares insights into research, writing, and hosts giveaways, particularly relevant for educators and librarians.
Ultimately, “The Storm” is more than just a children’s book; it’s a narrative that highlights the deep bond between humans and animals, the resilience of spirit, and the critical importance of preparedness in the face of nature’s fury. It serves as a poignant reminder of our responsibility to our animal companions, urging readers to consider their safety and well-being during times of crisis.
