Puppies, Dogs, and Blue Northers: Reflections on Being Raised by a Pack of Sled Dogs

An experienced Iditarod racer, Gary Paulsen celebrates his lead dog and longtime companion, Cookie, in this intimate essay. Paulsen takes readers inside the kennel as Cookie’s last litter of pups grow and learn to pull sleds across the snowy frontier.

Includes an author's note.

This unforgettable true story is a tribute to the deep love between a musher and his lead dog.

• A Lifesaving Bond: Get a firsthand look at the mystical connection between Iditarod racer Gary Paulsen and Cookie, the lead dog who saved his life more than once.
• Sled Dog School: Go inside the kennel where older dogs teach the new puppies everything—from how to stay warm in a blizzard to the proper way to sing.
• Puppy-Sized Chaos: Follow the heartwarming and hilarious adventures of Cookie’s last litter of seven puppies as they learn the ropes and turn the house upside down.
• A Final Farewell: A touching and honest look at love and loss as Paulsen shares the story of Cookie’s retirement and their final days together.