SEADOG - A Tale of Old New Zealand

Dorothy Butler with illustrations by Lyn Kriegler

Reed $20

Two highly talented women have combined to make this beautiful picture book for young children. It is the moving story of ten year old Joseph who has a crippled foot and gets about with the aid of a crutch on a farm in the Karekare Valley in 1890. The book portrays the story of Joesph's courage and determination and of his great love for his dog.

Dorothy Butler, what can one say about this remarkable woman that hasn't been said before? She is the author of many fine books, for both children and adults, with perhaps her most famous work being Babies Need Books.

But she is, and has been for many years far more than just an author. She was NZ's leading children's bookseller for many years, she has been a publisher and film maker, educator, mother and grandmother extraordinaire, and perhaps most importantly she has been one of our most passionate advocates in the causes of literature and literacy and of the need to read aloud to children from birth. Bookman Beattie salutes you Dorothy.

Now in this new book, (and I apologise to Dorothy & Lyn & the publishers for the terrible colour reproduction of the cover above), she has joined forces with another prolific talent, artist Lyn Kriegler whose gorgeous illustrations are just perfect for the story.

In a nice touch the author & illustrator have dedicated SEADOG to

"Bev Thompson, inspired and loved teacher at the little Lone Kauri School, Karekare, for the last 22 years".

SEADOG will be launched by Waitakere City Mayor Bob Harvey on Moday 8 October.