Aero & Officer Mike

by Joan Plummer Russell, Kris Turner Sinnenberg (Photographer), Joan Plummer Russell, P.

A true partnership is a rare thing. Yet for Corporal Mike Matsik and his K-9 partner, Aero, it seems second nature. They have been partners for four years, and to observe them on duty is to see the two working as one. Aero anticipates Mike's every move and watches alertly for Mike's every command. Mike seems to know what Aero is thinking by the mere angle of Aero's ears or the look in Aero's dark eyes. Aero's incredible senses of smell and hearing, his speed and strength, his pure canine instincts extend and expand Mike's abilities as a police officer. But when Aero is off duty, he can be as gentle and friendly as a family pet. Author Joan Plummer Russell spent two years on duty shifts with Corporal Matsik and Aero. What she observed both awed and inspired her. Together, text and pictures reveal not only the daily demands of the job, but also a deep friendship between man and dog that goes far beyond the police work to which they are both so dedicated.

Genres: Picture Books, Nonfiction, Childrens

32 pages, Hardcover

First published July 1, 2001

Reviews

[Derek · Rating 4 out of 5]

the reason I gave it a 4 is that the dog was so adorable he is such an amazing dog

[David Lentz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Among the many heroes emerging within our society of late, we are beginning to learn more about the intelligence and acute senses of man's best friend. Aero and Mike as a team work toward noble ends in rescue work and in protecting society. This book explains to children, and their parents, the important role and value to society afforded by the astonishing sensibilities of incredibly gifted creatures like Aero and skilled, dedicated and heroic police officers like Mike. I highly recommend this beautifully written book at a time when, more than ever, our children need to feel that our society is deeply committed to their safety.

[Katt Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A close look at what a K-9 team is all about. There was a lot of information here that I never knew. The bond between officer and dog is beautiful, and the facts are given in an entertaining format with lots of pictures. Very good book.