Some of the vocabulary describing the events of September 11th may be complex for readers that were either not yet born or too young to understand the terms used to describe that day. Most of the sentences include simple descriptions and thoughts that are easy to understand. Instead each chapter includes both flashbacks to earlier times and descriptions of the events that happened on September 11th. Lexile Level: N/A, ATOS Book Level: 6.7, Interest Level: grades 4-8, AR Points: 9.0 This story helps readers understand day to day life from a blind person’s perspective. This book does not discuss Hingson’s disabilities, but rather his strengths and accomplishments. Besides describing his 12 hour ordeal leaving for work and finally making it home on September 11th, the story is interlaced with descriptions of Hingson’s life experiences as a blind person. Throughout that entire time Roselle remained calm and follows Hingson’s command: “forward.” During their climb down the stairs Roselle comforted other paniced survivors and courageous firefighters rushing up towards the fire. Hingson describes how he and Roselle navigated their decent from the 78th floor. As American Airlines Flight 11 hit the North Tower, Hingson felt the tower lean, heard sounds of ceiling tiles hit the floor and smelled jet fuel from the explosion. Hingson, blind since birth, was employed as a district sales manager for a company located in the WTC. Thunder Dog tells the story of Michael Hingson and his guide dog Roselle as they worked together to escape from the North Tower of the World Trade Center (WTC) on September 11, 2001. Thunder dog: The true story of a blind man, his guide dog, and the triumph of trust at ground zero. And don’t forget to share your Booda Bone.Hingson, M., & Flory, S. When work is over, play hard with your friends. Remember the first guide dog command? “Forward.” 10. Sometimes being a hero is just doing your job. Listen carefully to those who are wiser and more experienced than you. There’s more to life than playing fetch or chasing tennis balls. Sometimes the way is hard, but if you work together, someone will pass along a water bottle just when you need it. Don’t let your sight get in the way of your vision.

Learn to tell the difference between a harmless thunderstorm and a true emergency. When the harness goes on, it’s time to work. There’s a time to work and a time to play. “Guide Dog Wisdom What I Learned from Roselle on 9/11 1.

Thunder Dog by Michael Hingson