The Bravest Dog Ever: The True Story of Balto

It is one of the worst storms ever—it’s been snowing for days and is 30 degrees below zero. But somehow Balto must get through. He is the lead dog of a sled team carrying medicine to sick children in Nome, Alaska. He is the kids’ only hope. Can Balto find his way through the terrible storm? Find out in this exciting true story! 

Follow this suspenseful tale as Gunner (Balto’s owner), Balto, and his team travel through a terrible blizzard. These dogs never give up, even as “snow blocked the trails. The dogs sank up to their necks in the snow. They could not move. Some began to panic.” Balto stays calm, which helps the other dogs wait as Gunner digs them out. But this is just one obstacle that Balto helps Gunner navigate. Readers will wait in anticipation as they watch Balto navigate this terrible storm and will cheer when Balto finally makes it to Nome. 

While the majority of the story focuses on Balto, readers will also see how many people had to work together to get the medicine to Nome. The illustrations will help readers understand why medicine could not be delivered any other way. For instance, one illustration shows a train stuck in the snow while another shows a map of the trip, giving readers a clear visual of the vast distances involved. The illustrations compliment the dire tone of the story, using light blues and browns on white backgrounds. These muted colors allow the snow to take center stage. 

The True Story of Balto is part of the Step into Reading Level Three Series, which targets readers in first grade through third grade. With three short chapters, Step Three books are longer and slightly more difficult than Step Two books. Each page has three to seven sentences and a large illustration. This level includes some more challenging vocabulary and concepts, though the meanings are made clear through context and illustrations. 

The True Story of Balto brings history to life with suspense and drama that will make the book hard to put down. While Balto’s bravery is highlighted, the book doesn’t leave out the other people who helped along the way. This story shows the importance of working together and persevering in difficult times. Any reader who loves dogs will enjoy learning more about the true story of Balto. Learn about more animal heroes by reading Pigeon Hero by Shirley Raye Redmond.  

Sexual Content  

• None 

Violence  

• On the trip, “In one team, two dogs froze to death.”  

Drugs and Alcohol  

• None

Language  

• None 

Supernatural 

• None 

Spiritual Content  

• None