Patti Sherlock

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Letters From Wolfie is a relatively short story about a thirteen year old boy named Mark who (mostly out of envy) sends his beloved dog Wolfie to help the army in Vietnam without really knowing much about what he has done, all he knows is it gets his older brother (who is a soldier already) out of the spotlight for a little while and gives him a few moments of glory. However when he finds out that dogs are targeted by the enemy for a hefty price he digs deeper into what goes on in Vietnam with the dogs, and after receiving a letter with Wolfie's handler's details he takes it upon himself to write to the guy and find out more whilst keeping updated on how well his beloved companion is doing.

Mostly this book is light on the brain, addressing issues with the government and showing both sides of the argument. Mark is pressured to support the war from his dad, however when he learns more he begins to question how right his father is.


I found the book quite interesting, though at times it did seem like Mark was a lot older than his thirteen years. This book uses letters to tell the reader what exactly being in the army is like and addresses the not well known issue of what happens to our four legged heroes after the war. Letters From Wolfie also shows how the war can affect families, people torn between where to stand and segregating themselves from people who have different opinions. I knew that this was going to be a sad book when I bought it and for most part it wasn't to bad, then the dreaded part near the end came and letters from all the soldiers were sent to Mark along with a letter from the handler. Obviously I held back the tears as I wasn't reading this alone, however if I had I think I'd have plenty of wet tissues surrounding me.

This book is a keeper, sorry local library!!! =]… (mere)

Letters from Wolfie takes place during the begining of the Vietnam war. A boy named Mark wants to donate his dog Wolfie to the army because his brother (who is a soldier in Vietnam) says the military needs dogs. As soon as he is donated, Mark learns that the enemy paies people money to kill military working dogs and begins to worry. He also worries that Wolfie isn't doing well in training and tries to get him back. When the military says that Wolfie is no longer a pet and that he is a soldier, Mark sets up protest marches and letters to try to bring back his friend. After his brother loses his leg in a boming, and things start to get better, the unspeakable happens. When Wolfie and his partner are going on potrol, out of no were Wolfie gets shot. Years after Wolfies death before Mark goes to college, he writes one last letter to reminde his dearest friend he'll never forget him.

In my opinion, this is one of my most favorate books. Even though its fiction, it describes real events that took place during that time. This story shows how much dedication Mark gives for his best friend and I appretiate that. Wolfie shows how loyal a dog can be and will fight to the end for a friend. I was very disapointed that Wolfie past away,but if also gave the story a happy ending as well. I hope I will find another book like this someday… (mere)