Toby's Story is the first book in the series of The Adventures of Toby and Dr. David. These animal stories are told by Dr. David's Labrador Retriever, Toby. As a rescue dog himself, Toby begins the series with his own story. He outlines the trials he faces in his journey to a forever home with the doctor and then chronicles the list of new friends he has made out in the countryside. Toby's introduction of each playpal includes insight into their respective character, behavior and workaday contribution to farm life.
The Adventures of Toby and Dr. David series is intended to raise the awareness of young children to the practice of animal rescue as well as to the appropriate care and handling of animals in general. A Close Reading Parent/Teacher Guide is included to facilitate practices that stimulate and enhance early literacy and comprehensive thought.
Behrends, Beverly: - Beverly Behrends is an accomplished Texas hill country artist and illustrator. Her husband, David, is the Veterinarian in Blanco where they live. In addition to managing and caring for a multitude of farm and rescue animals of her own, Beverly is avidly and actively involved in national animal rescue and placement efforts. She and Dr. David rescued, rehabilitated and adopted Toby, a yellow Labrador, the primary voice and character in this book and the series. Toby, who had suffered unfathomable abuse as a bait dog, was found starved and gravely injured with his mouth taped shut, dumped to die. He was brought into care at the Behrends' farm and today is fully recovered, overflowing with life, love, loyalty and appreciation.
Harbach, Chris: - Having witnessed Toby's road to recovery and his discovery of his "forever" family first hand, Chris felt compelled to capture the inherent values and lessons on paper so they might be shared with her grandchildren, their friends and with young animal lovers everywhere. Chris Harbach is a Texas singer/songwriter living with her husband, horses and four canine rescues in the hill country north of San Antonio. Chris has written and recorded numerous country western songs and ballads. Her music is known for its storytelling lyrics and conveyance of real-life emotion and experience. Chris holds a BA in English Literature from Stanford University.
Noerr, Heather: - Heather Noerr is an NCLB certified California teacher. Heather holds a Master's Degree in Multiple Subject Education. Additionally, she is credentialed in Professional Clear Multiple Subject and ELA Emphasis Teaching. Heather has over twelve years of classroom exposure and experience in highly privileged and Title One low income classified schools. Her comprehension of the components and her skills as they relate to the practice of close reading, have established Heather as a sought-after example by her peers. Heather is a passionate proponent of early childhood literacy. She is currently teaching second grade, chairing her department and raising her family which includes their rescue Chihuahua-mix named Chip.
