Balto & Togo Hero Dogs of Alaska (ToolKit)

Helen Moss

Age Rec: 3-5th Grade

Themes: Dogs, Heros, Alaska, Epidemics, The Serum Run

Based on a true story of the 1925 Diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska, this book recounts the heroic deeds of the dogs who delivered life-saving medicine. The harsh wilderness and severe winter storms made dog sleds the only practical means of transporting the vital serum, crucial for saving children's lives and averting an epidemic. Discover the story of the humans and their fiercely loyal dogs who undertook this perilous journey, ensuring the children received the necessary medicine for survival. While all dogs played essential roles, some gained more fame and were hailed as heroes. Togo, the lead dog, covered more distance than any other sled team. However, Balto, leading the final leg, received recognition for "delivering" the life-saving serum. After exploring this story from both human and canine perspectives, readers can decide who truly deserves the accolade of the ultimate hero.