In The Adventures of Moly, The Time Traveling Dog: Visiting Teotihuacan by David Alyn Gordon, readers are introduced to Moly, a resilient Beagle Terrier who finds herself homeless and struggling to survive. Scavenging for scraps and drinking from lawn sprinklers, she roams the streets until a group of rescuers brings her to the Maricopa County Animal Care Shelter. It is here that she catches the attention of Director Ferrara and Technology Supervisor Chadwick, two employees of the Falcone Foundation, an undercover research facility hidden beneath Arizona State University. Their mission? To find the perfect canine candidate for a unique and highly classified program. Moly fits the bill. Ferrara takes her home, offering her the comfort and care she desperately needs, but Moly’s new life is far from ordinary.

Ferrara and Chadwick train Moly in not one but two extraordinary roles. By day, she becomes a therapy dog for children at the Renaissance Academy, where Ferrara works as a student counselor. However, her second role is even more astonishing; Moly is tasked with traveling through time to ancient Teotihuacan, now part of modern-day Mexico. Her objective: to document her encounters, capturing images and videos of the Aztec civilization. But as Moly embarks on this thrilling mission, questions arise. Can she navigate an unfamiliar world alone? Will she safely return to the present?

The concept of a time-traveling dog is undeniably unique, blending adventure with education. While I found the idea of Moly as a therapy dog heartwarming and well-suited for young readers, I was perplexed by the decision to send her unaccompanied on such a risky historical expedition. The logistics of her mission raised questions: Why would Ferrara and Chadwick entrust such a critical task to Moly rather than undertake it themselves? The uncertainty surrounding Moly’s well-being and the potential dangers of time travel left me with mixed emotions.

That said, Gordon masterfully incorporates historical elements into the narrative, making learning about the Aztec civilization an engaging experience for children. The storytelling is accessible, seamlessly weaving historical facts into Moly’s adventure without feeling like a lesson. Young readers will absorb knowledge effortlessly, drawn into the rich culture and daily life of Teotihuacan’s past inhabitants.

The vivid illustrations by Valeria Leonova, which appear on every page, add to the book’s charm. The colorful, dynamic artwork enhances the story, capturing the reader’s imagination while providing visual context to Moly’s journey. The illustrations perfectly complement Gordon’s storytelling, making the book even more immersive for young audiences.

David Alyn Gordon’s background as a social studies teacher, principal, and founder of the Grand Canyon College Preparatory Academy in Tempe, Arizona, is evident in his approach to blending entertainment with education. Through Moly’s adventures, children are introduced to historic landmarks and cultures in a way that feels organic and exciting.

The Adventures of Moly, The Time Traveling Dog: Visiting Teotihuacan is a creative and engaging read. It offers young audiences both an entertaining story and an insightful glimpse into history. With its vibrant illustrations and unique premise, this book will surely capture the hearts of children who love animals, adventure, and discovering the past.

Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0DHV8HVXB