Born to Pull

The Glory of Sled Dogs

2009
Author:

Bob Cary
Illustrations by Gail de Marcken

Hike! That’s dogspeak for “Let’s go!”

Born to Pull is a celebration of sled dogs who love to run in cold and snowy Minnesota, including lively stories from veteran mushers, insider information on dog care and training, and breathtaking watercolor illustrations that make the dogs come to life on the page.

If you love dogs, you have to get this book. Stunningly illustrated and beautifully written, this book combines great information with a love of dogs that glows off every page.

Patricia McConnell, cohost of Wisconsin Public Radio’s Calling All Pets

For centuries, sled dogs pulled the people of northern climates over otherwise impassable distances of snow and ice, guiding them home through trackless wilderness. These burly, strong dogs were the lifeblood of the northern winter world. Today, from races like the famed Iditarod and the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon to sled dog tours, people from all climates are rediscovering the joy of this dog-powered sport. Born to Pull is a celebration of sled dogs who love to run in cold and snowy Minnesota, including lively stories from veteran mushers, insider information on dog care and training, and breathtaking watercolor illustrations that make the dogs come to life on the page.

Bob Cary (1921–2006) was an author, journalist, and wilderness adventurer. His many books include Root Beer Lady, Tales from Jackpine Bob, and Ely Echoes, all available from the University of Minnesota Press.

Gail de Marcken is an illustrator of children’s books. Her books include The Quiltmaker’s Gift, The Quiltmaker's Journey, and Miss Hunnicutt's Hat by Jeff Brumbeau; Clever Ali by Nancy Farmer; and The Nutcracker and the Mouse King by E. T. A. Hoffmann. She and her husband live year-round in the woods near Ely, Minnesota.

If you love dogs, you have to get this book. Stunningly illustrated and beautifully written, this book combines great information with a love of dogs that glows off every page.

Patricia McConnell, cohost of Wisconsin Public Radio’s Calling All Pets

There’s almost no way to describe the beauty with which this book about sled dogs was conceived, written, and illustrated. . . . Born to Pull has a dreamy quality to it, so effectively does it capture a world removed from everyday life and portray the mystical connection between humans and animals.

American Booksellers Association

Born to Pull. . . is a perfect rendition of the Spirit of mushing. With wonderfully illustrated pages full of factual stories and information—this book is pure delight for mushing enthusiasts, adventurers and lovers of the outdoors.

Sleddoggin.com

Meant for kids ages 10 and up, I wouldn’t hesitate to hand this book to an adult who counts the days til winter. Born to Pull is a book they’ll pull off the shelves again and again.

The Bookworm Sez

Add in generously lifelike watercolors by illustrator Gail de Marcken and your dog lover will howl with happiness.

Daily Jefferson County Union

Born to Pull is a book they’ll pull of the shelves again and again.

Daily Jefferson County Union

Got a kid who’s passionate about sports, dogs and snow — or all three? If you do, Born to Pull is a book he’ll want to get his mittens on.

View News

Gail de Marcken’s watercolor illustrations make this a children’s book for adults, or an adult book that kids won’t be able to leave alone. So incredibly gorgeous.

MinnPost.com

This is a fun book. When [Cary] mentions the sound of a dog yard erupting in an ‘inspired group howl,’ only the most jaded readers won’t feel the longing to go out and purchase a dog team.

Fairbanks Daily News-Miner