The Highly Trained Dogs of Professor Petit

by Carol Ryrie Brink

There is so much work for a boy to do in the serious town of Puddling Center that eleven-year-old Willie can’t even go to school. So when Willie meets Professor Petit and his five “Highly Trained Dogs”—each with its own special talent—he’s delighted. Maybe their traveling show will shake things up! But then Petit’s rival, Hulk Hoskins, rolls into town with a circus tiger, and the professor and one of his dogs end up in big trouble. Now it’s up to Willie and his new canine friends to save the day and put on a show this town will never forget!

Back in print for the first time in decades, this 1953 novel by Newbery winner Carol Ryrie Brink will have kids rooting for cheerful Willie, honest Professor Petit, and the amazing Highly Trained Dogs.

Genres: Animals, Middle Grade, Childrens

131 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1953

About the author

Carol Ryrie Brink was an American novelist and children’s writer best known for capturing frontier life with warmth, humor, and historical detail. Raised in Idaho after a childhood marked by early family tragedy, she grew up under the care of her grandmother, whose vivid storytelling later inspired her most celebrated book, Caddie Woodlawn, winner of the 1936 Newbery Medal and a lasting classic of American juvenile literature. Educated at the University of Idaho and the University of California, Berkeley, she graduated Phi Beta Kappa before marrying mathematician Raymond W. Brink and settling in Minnesota, where she balanced family life with a prolific writing career. Over several decades she produced more than thirty books for young readers and adults, often drawing on Midwestern landscapes, pioneer history, and her own experiences. Summers spent in rural Wisconsin further enriched the authentic settings of her fiction. In later years she also pursued poetry and painting. Honored by her alma mater and commemorated in her hometown, Brink remains remembered for stories that celebrate independence, resilience, and the imaginative life of childhood.

Reviews

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was just plain fun. Carol Ryrie Brink can spin a fun tale with animals, and these dogs sure are talented. l really enjoyed my time with Petit, his small-town kid friends, and his extra-talented dogs. Recommended to anyone with kids or a general love for animals.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

“The greatest pleasure in life, really, is in giving a good performance, whether it be an exhibit of skill before a distinguished audience or only a stew which one expects to share with his dog. Remember that, please. It is quite important.”

Carol Ryrie Brink’s writing is as charming as ever in this sweet story of a boy, Professor Petit, a dog show, and a rival circus! Sweet and lovely and perfect for any young animal lover.

[Kate Howe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Carol Ryrie Brink consistently gives me such a wonderful reading experience!

[Luisa Knight · Rating 3 out of 5]

When Willie moves to a different town to help his uncle, he doesn't know his life is about to change for the better when he meets a traveling showman and his highly trained dogs.

The book has it all! Adventure, mystery, good guys, bad guys, and moments sprinkled with humor and comedy. There's a strong emphasis on good, moral character too. Definitely a fun read!

Ages: 6 - 12

Cleanliness: nothing really to note.

**Like my reviews? I also have hundreds of detailed reports that I offer too. These reports give a complete break-down of everything in the book, so you'll know just how clean it is or isn't. I also have Clean Guides (downloadable PDFs) which enable you to clean up your book before reading it!

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[Ginny · Rating 3 out of 5]

I'm surprised that I missed this book as a child, since I loved Brink's other books, especially Family Grandstand, Family Sabbatical, Caddie Woodlawn, and Magical Melons. I feel this book was not one of her better efforts although its subtle messages about treating animals with love & kindness and not allowing money-making to be your primary goal in life are excellent lessons for young readers.

[Carly Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun little read for any young dog lover. As an adult it was a little easy to see where the story was heading but still a charming read

[Nancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovely little book. I appreciated the way they all worked together with their special talents. I think my Vintage Book Circle will enjoy this.

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely delightful! This little-known classic is a real gem.

[Abigail Whitcomb · Rating 4 out of 5]

A good fun read aloud! Not really on the level of her other books, but still a good story.

[The Reading Writing Puppet · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's perfect for children, great story.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

First read this book in grade school in 1964, it was one of my favorite books. When i saw this listed for a goodread giveaway I had to read it again. It is still as fun a read as it was when I was a kid. The story takes place in 1852 and tells how Willie at age 11 went live and work with his uncle in Pudding Center. Its a very unhappy time until he meets Professor Petit and his highly trained dogs. But trouble arrive when Hoskins' Circus comes to town .

[Stacia Chappell]

Best book every if you have a dog: The teenagers love it: Thanks alot: I give this book a 5 star : Get this book for all your dog owners

[Amy R D · Rating 3 out of 5]

Carol Ryrie Brink is such a great author. I have enjoyed all of her books and this book is no exception.