Good golly, I LOVED this book. I love what the author is doing with these books. Ripley’s story was engaging and so fun to read. The puppy antics were fun and relatable. I love that the author brings forward tough subjects (in this case, PTSD/anxiety) and presents them in such a fun way. There are so many teachable moments for kids in these books but in an engaging, fun way that doesn’t feel like teaching. Told from the dogs perspective, I could not get enough of Ripley and his “people”!

First of all, thank you for this ARC.
A Border Collie named Ripley changes Ben's life. A firefighter story. From being taken away from his family, to trusting all over again. Learning language, command, saving lives. Training for life comes in different forms, and this story will hit your heart. Danger and Love. Two wonderful, balancing chemicals. Enjoy this read.

A border collie puppy named Ripley is slated to become a service dog. However, he's a little too energetic to pass the training program. Instead, he is adopted by a firefighter/paramedic named Ben who thinks Ripley will make a good fire search and rescue dog. Unfortunately, another member of the fire department thinks dogs have no place in a fire station. Can Ripley prove him wrong? Teacher friends, you are going to want this book for your classrooms. Parents, this is great for your middle-grade readers. It deals with the death of a parent and childhood PSTD in gentle ways. This book is the second in W. Bruce Cameron's Dogs with a Purpose series. I can't wait to read more!

Thanks to Tor Publishing Group, Starscape, and NetGalley for a review copy of this title.

I have read all of the “Dog with a purpose” books and Cameron keeps delivering the stories we all love! I especially enjoy these books because there’s always the “human story” enhancing the dog’s purpose in life. Thank you for the advanced copy!!

Fascinating story of the transformation from lively puppy to rescue dog told from the perspective of Ripley the pup. The book also shows how much animals can help in healing and assisting with the trauma, fear and hurt people face. An informative and enjoyable read. Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for letting me read an advanced copy.

I love Bruce Cameron. He is one of the main authors I recommend to kids who are looking for heartwarming dog books. This book is just as good as his past ones. I love Ripley and him learning what his purpose is. I think it is enduring that he can find two purposes and knows who his person is, even though it is not the initial person who takes him. Having Samantha go through such growth by working with Ripley truly shows the power of being connected to a dog. This is just a lovely book.
Thank you to Tor Publishing Group, Starscape, and Netgalley for allowing me to read an advance copy of this title.

This was a great read. I will definitely be recommending this title to some of my students in the upcoming school year. It often just takes a puppy character to pull them in

This story begins with a litter of puppies, and a Border Collie named Ripley who changes the life of Ben, a firefighter and the man who adopts Ripley, as well.

As he is carried from the only home he has known, leaving his brothers and sisters behind, Ripley begins to fall asleep, but is awakened when he hears Ben tell him that there is a house fire, and they need to get there to help.

Soon after, needing someone to help train Ripley, Samantha, along with her mother Lizzy, become a part of Ripley’s life. Ripley is drawn to Samantha from the start, sensing that she needs him, that he could help her heal from her trauma from the past, and their bond is formed quickly.

A sweet story, at times, this also shares some moments of danger, but there is also a lot of love, in many forms.


Pub Date: 27 Aug 2024

Many thanks for the ARC provided by Tor Publishing Group/Starscape

This is a story about a dog who becomes a fire search and rescue dog. It follows his journey from a puppy to his training to his job.

This book is meant for children aged 8-12 it says online on Amazon, but it is definitely suitable and enjoyable for adults too. I personally think that based on the writing style it should actually be enjoyable for anyone middle school age or older.

It’s a very cute story watching his journey as a border collie puppy that is wild and out of control to learning commands and tasks and being able to accomplish great things. Also the stories of his owners and their journeys are incredible too.

Lots of exciting stories of rescues that I really enjoyed. I def recommend this one.

Thank you to Netgalley and Tor Publishing group for this free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

Ripley is quite a dog. He has a rough start. He doesn't fit where he was placed. Then firefighter Ben comes along. Ben is determined to help Ripley find his purpose. On the way to getting him ready, Samantha and her mom Lizzy enter the picture. They help train Ripley but Ripley also brings healing to Samantha's issues. I loved this book. The plot and the characters were amazing. I have several of the Dog's Purpose and Puppy Tales in my library but this is the first one I read myself. I will definitely read more.

I received this advanced copy in exchange of writing my review for NetGalley.

Calling all dog lovers! Ripley: Fire Station Five is a wonderful story of a dog who finds his purpose in life. He gets trained as a search dog as well as becoming an emotional support for 1 of his trainers. I loved how this was written from the dog’s perspective. I have read other books from this author and always enjoy them!!