I’m excited to prepare this book review for m.t.becker’s Zinger in the Woods. As a grandmother of three, I adore children’s books. I’m also a substitute teacher for lower grades, and I’m a nature-lover, so Zinger in the Woods caught my attention. This book provides life lessons through the eyes of a little girl, Olive, and her beloved hound dog, Ginger. Both are captivated by nature and often take long walks in the park. 

Curious young readers, or listeners, will love learning about the animals encountered by Olive and Ginger, and they’ll have fun on this adventure that at times is exciting but also a little nerve-racking. I mean that in a good way. Without giving away the plot, I’ll just say Ginger gets into some trouble when she and Olive become separated and she’s trapped in a scary place. 

But along comes Zen to save the day! He is a kind and caring Australian shepherd who has been in and out of foster care his whole life, so he understands what it feels like to be alone in the woods and afraid. He also knows how to cure any ills using natural remedies like peppermint leaves to take away pain and lavender flowers for calming and soothing.

As the two dogs make their way back to Ginger’s home, they find nutritious berries and thirst-quenching water to keep them feeling their best. Olive is so excited to see them both, and she welcomes Zen into her family. 

This heartwarming story is a healthy lesson about trust, friendship, and self-care. The dogs have human-like qualities so they are relatable to young readers who will also learn about compassion, empathy, problem-solving, and teamwork. The illustrations by Peter Fasolino are convincing, taking us through the scenes as if we are part of the story. 

Thank you, Mark and Tiesha Becker, for this little book that I am pleased to share with my grandchildren, my students, and my blog-readers. 
About the Authors, M.T. Becker: Zinger In The Woods was retold by, husband and wife authors, Mark and Tiesha Becker, former elementary school teachers who decided to write a book after fostering three malnourished puppies. Zinger In the Woods reflects the lessons they learned from being parents, doggie parents, and teachers for over thirty years. You can discover more about M.T. Becker on their website: www.live-grow-sustain.com.