Readers' Advisory Matrix: Week 12 Prompt Response

Reader’s Advisory Matrix

Giant George: Life with the World’s Biggest Dog 

by Dave Nasser

1.  Where is the book on the narrative continuum?

            þ Highly narrative (reads like fiction)

   ¨       A mix (combines highly narrative moments with periods  

                    of fact-based prose)

   ¨       Highly fact based (has few or no narrative moments)

2.   What is the subject of the book?

The book is about how the Nassers raised George, a Great Dane, from puppyhood and soon discovered his ever-increasing size was something special.

3.  What type of book is it?

      A memoir.

4.  Articulate appeal

     What is the pacing of the book?

     The pace is steady and makes the book a quick read.

     

     Describe the characters of the book. 

     The book revolves primarily around the major characters.  The author, Dave, is reluctant to add a     

     dog to his marriage.  His wife, Christie, persistently and successfully persuades him to do it  

     anyway, and they end up with George, the Great Dane puppy that eventually becomes a contender   

     for the Guinness World Record for World’s Biggest Dog.

     How does the story feel?

     Upbeat and heartwarming.

     What is the intent of the author?

     To share his experience with George and enlighten readers about raising a famous, world record-    

     holding dog.

     What is the focus of the story?

     How life changed once the Nassers got George and as he continued growing beyond their 

     expectations.

     Does the language matter?

     No.

     Is the setting important and well described?

     The setting only matters in that the very reason the Nassers got George was because they moved 

     away from Christie’s family, and she insisted on having a canine companion to compensate for    

     that.

     Are there details and, if so, of what?

     Most of the details revolve around George’s weight and size, including measurements during 

     veterinary visits, and how his weight/size influenced the Nassers’ lives and lifestyle.

     Are there sufficient charts and other graphic materials?  Are they useful and clear?

     None.

     Does the book stress moments of learning, understanding, or experience?

     The book stresses moments of learning for the Nassers.  The readers have moments of 

     understanding life with a truly giant dog, and experiencing the highs and lows of that life.

5.  Why would a reader enjoy this book (rank appeal)?
     1.  Detail                     2.  Tone                       3. Characterization