Module 2: Shiloh

Shiloh by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

 

Summary: Shiloh is about a boy named Marty, who is followed by a dog one day while he is out in the woods.  Marty names the dog Shiloh, and based on his reactions, Marty believes he is being severely mistreated.  Marty's father makes him return the dog, but when Shiloh shows up again, Marty knows he needs to do something to try to save his life.  Even though he knows it is dishonest, Marty hides Shiloh and brings him food.  Unfortunately, Shiloh's owner will do just about anything to get him back.

APA Reference:  Naylor, P. R. (1991).  Shiloh.  New York, NY: Bantam Doubleday Dell Publishing Group, Inc.

Impressions:  I liked the back woods feel of the book, which takes place in rural Virginia, maybe because I love nature and the outdoors. I also appreciated the main character, Marty, in his desire and determination to do what was right, even though it meant him having to lie about knowing the whereabouts of Shiloh. The moral dilemmas in the book, such as when Marty has to decide whether to lie or to face a consequence that he feels is worse, or when he decides to treat Judd with respect even though he doesn't feel he is a nice person, are similar to what kids have to face today.  Judd, the cruel master of Shiloh, is also an intriguing character as the author gives subtle glimpses into the reasons why he might be such a tough character. This book is sure to be loved by those who like similar books such as, Old Yeller, Summer of the Monkeys, and Stone Fox.

Professional Review:  In the tradition of Sounder and Where the Red Fern Grows comes this boy-and-his-dog story set in rural West Virginia.  When he finds a mistreated beagle pup, 11-year-old Marty knows that the animal should be returned to its rightful owner.  But he also realizes that the dog will only be further abused.  So he doesn't tell his parent about his discovery, sneaks food for the dog and gets himself into a moral dilemma in trying to do the right thing.  Without breaking new ground, Marty's tale is well told, with a strong emphasis on family and religious values.  This heartwarming novel should win new fans for the popular Naylor.  Ages 8-12.  

Roback, D. & Donahue, R. (1991, July 12). Review of the book Shiloh, by P. R. Naylor]. Publishers weekly, 238, 66. Retrieved from http://www.publishersweekly.com/
Library Uses:  Bring service dogs or other non-confrontational dogs into the library.  Allow kids to come to the library to read to the dogs once a month.  Include this book, and other popular books about dogs on a nearby display to be checked out by all those dog lovers.  Another tie-in would be to bring in a dog show for a special family night program.  If you wanted to focus more on dealing with bullies, this would be an opportunity to invite a Verbal Judo instructor to the library.  Present books like Shiloh which deal with bullies, followed by a demonstration and hands on advice from the instructor.