The Dog Runner (Paperback)

The writing is wonderfully evocative and made more so by an author who wants to give a flavour of the harsh beauty of the Australian landscape, as well as being clearly passionate about her subject. As such, it is strongly recommended for young readers who enjoy adventure, plenty of jeopardy as well as having an interest in the environment. -- Karen Argent * The Letterpress Project blog *
In 'The Dog Runner', not only does the reader encounter a stark possibility for the future as we unbalance the world and its resources, but themes of loyalty, what constitutes family, the almost primeval bond between humans and dogs, love and identity (including ethnic and social) are all there to be contemplated. There is such depth to The Dog Runner that it would make a sensational class reader for children aged 9-13, but I'd like to see as many adults as possible read it too because there is a warning here for us all as well as a superbly compelling narrative. * Linda's Book Bag blog *
Bren McDibble's dystopia feels one step away from reality. She writes with knowledge about the land and food production and knows their value to society. -- Louise Nettleton, blogger
The Dog Runner is a tense, thrilling adventure story full of close calls and peril, but it's also glowing with heart, whether it's the relationship between Ella and Emery or their love for the "doggos" helping them get to where they need to be. The all-too timely reminders about the importance of the environment and food security, Bren MacDibble's distinctive writing style, and the delicious sense of threat make The Dog Runner hard to resist.
... a fast-paced adventure novel, about adaptability, the importance of kindness, and a showcase for children's hope in the future of the planet. -- Claire Zinkin * MinervaReads blog *
Resilience and resourcefulness are essential in this enthralling, fast-paced ecological drama. - Shortlisting citation for New Zealand Book Awards for Children and Young Adults, 2019
The Dog Runner is a non-stop adventure which will entertain as much as it will provoke thought about the importance of looking after our planet and how we should be doing this now - not waiting until it's too late. -- Victoria Dilly * thebookactivist blog *