Bolo the Brave by Jim Jones is a marvelous story of a boy and his true friend, the dog Bolo. Charlie finds Bolo while helping his Grandpa Will run a chuckwagon that feeds people traveling west. Bolo, the stray dog earns his keep by protecting Charlie and being a great friend to a lonely boy. In these three stories Charlie learns lessons from his Grandpa and Bolo. These are lessons for every child no matter the time or place.

This is a book that could be read independently by a third grader reader while younger children would enjoy having it read to them. I am a grandmother who enjoy these stories too, so it would be a great family read. The stories are written with just enough details to keep it interesting. Kids would be able to identify with Charlie and his concerns in life such as - is he a coward, or why is it difficult to make friends, and other questions of life. Readers would wish that they had a Bolo, with a crooked smile, in their lives. The drawings are simple but fit the feel of these stories. I recommend this story as a retired elementary educator and grandmother who reads with her grandchildren to others.

This is great for kids reading at a higher level or just starting out on chapter books. Bolo is adorable and teaches lessons of bravery, courage, and preserving.

With spending times with my nephews, I have found myself reading the most adorable books. This one is among the best. I love the themes of a boy and a dog. I love the family element. The sketches throughout the book. The cute little western adventures. Highly recommend.

First off, that dedication made me tear up! What a great way to honor the memory of his dog and show appreciation for his current pup and friend who inspired the idea of the books! I really enjoyed all three stories and feel like this is the perfect introduction into chapter books for younger children. Charlie finding a companion in Bolo during such a hard time in his life is so heart touching. The bond created is something truly special. Also with Bolo looking different compared to other dogs shares the important message to never judge others and what they look like, it only matters how kind they are. I really enjoyed getting to know Charlie, Bolo, and Grandpa Will and going on an adventure through the western plains in Texas during the 1800s. The added educational information about that time period is a nice way for children to take interest in learning history.