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Blink 3 of 8 - The 5 AM Club
by Robin Sharma
Cracker! summary
Cynthia Kadohata
Brief summary
Cracker! is a heartwarming story about a young girl named Maggie and her extraordinary bond with Cracker, a search-and-rescue dog. Together, they embark on a thrilling journey that will test their courage and loyalty.
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Cracker!
Summary of key ideas
Unlikely Partners in War
In Cracker! by Cynthia Kadohata, we are introduced to the unlikely duo of Rick Hanski, a teenager from a small town in Ohio, and Cracker, a German Shepherd. The story is set during the Vietnam War, and Rick is drafted into the army. Cracker, on the other hand, is a highly trained bomb-sniffing dog. Their paths cross when they are paired together for a mission in the war-torn country.
Rick, who is initially skeptical of the army's decision to pair him with a dog, soon forms a close bond with Cracker. The dog, too, has her own doubts about Rick's capabilities. As they begin their training, they realize they are both misfits in their own ways - Rick, because he's not the typical soldier, and Cracker, because she's a female dog in a predominantly male unit.
The Bond Between Soldier and Dog
As they are deployed to Vietnam, their bond deepens amidst the chaos of war. Rick is constantly in awe of Cracker's abilities and fierce loyalty, while Cracker learns to trust Rick's instincts and decisions. They save countless lives with their combined skills, and their reputation as a formidable team spreads throughout the army.
However, the war takes its toll on both of them. Rick struggles with the atrocities of war, and Cracker is not immune to the horrors either. She suffers from PTSD, a condition that was not well understood in military dogs at that time. Despite this, they continue to serve, their mutual reliance on each other growing stronger.
Returning Home
When Rick's tour finally ends, he is allowed to return home. However, Cracker, being a military dog, is considered government property and is not allowed to go back with him. This is a devastating blow for both of them. Rick is determined to fight for Cracker's release, and with the help of his family and friends, he starts a campaign to bring her back to the US.
After a long and emotional battle, Rick finally manages to bring Cracker back home. However, their joy is short-lived when they realize that the trauma of war has changed them both irreversibly. They struggle to readjust to civilian life, haunted by the memories of the war.
Life After War
In the end, Rick finds solace in working with troubled veterans, using the lessons he learned from Cracker to help them heal. Cracker, too, finds a new purpose as a therapy dog, helping others cope with their own trauma. Despite their hardships, they find comfort in each other, their bond remaining unbreakable.
In Cracker! Kadohata beautifully explores the unbreakable bond between humans and animals, and the devastating impact of war on both. Through the eyes of a dog, we witness the harsh realities of the Vietnam War and the indomitable spirit of those who fought in it. The story ends on a bittersweet note, reminding us that even in the darkest of times, love and loyalty can endure.
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What is Cracker! about?
Cracker! by Cynthia Kadohata is a heartwarming and inspiring novel about a young girl named Maggie who forms a special bond with a stray dog named Cracker. Set during the Great Depression, the book explores themes of friendship, loyalty, and the power of love. It is a beautiful story that will captivate readers of all ages.
Cracker! Review
Cracker! (2007) portrays the poignant bond between a young soldier and his loyal dog during the Vietnam War. Here are three reasons why this book is worth your time:
- Explores the theme of friendship and loyalty under difficult circumstances, offering a heartfelt narrative that resonates with readers.
- Provides a unique perspective on the horrors of war through the eyes of a canine companion, shedding light on the emotional impact of conflict on both humans and animals.
- Despite the wartime setting, the story is imbued with compassion and tenderness, ensuring that readers are drawn into a captivating tale that goes beyond the typical war narrative.
Who should read Cracker!?
Readers who enjoy stories about the bond between humans and animals
Those interested in historical fiction set during the Vietnam War
Animal lovers who want to gain a deeper understanding of the role of military working dogs
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Cracker! FAQs
What is the main message of Cracker!?
The main message of Cracker! revolves around the bond between a soldier and his loyal dog during the Vietnam War.
How long does it take to read Cracker!?
Reading Cracker! takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Cracker! a good book? Is it worth reading?
Cracker! is a heartwarming tale of friendship and loyalty, making it a touching and worthwhile read.
Who is the author of Cracker!?
Cynthia Kadohata is the author of Cracker!.
What to read after Cracker!?
If you're wondering what to read next after Cracker!, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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