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An eccentric Swedish baker mentors three interesting children. The protagonist, Dalgliesh (Dogleash,) is a black-Scottish boy whose name and mixed heritage cause him low self-esteem. Fredericka (Freddie) is a bright, forward-thinking girl who collects words and experiences. Her younger brother, Hank, is full of tag-along energy and fun, and he turns out to be surprisingly brave.
Other characters cause plot complications. The antagonist, Audrey/Stoneface, is the leader of a youthful neighborhood gang; and Moose is Audrey's slothful sidekick. Other characters include a harridan neighbor, Mrs. Harsnort; a proud judge, Dogleash's father; Mam, Dogleash's proud and regal grandmother (a gourmet cook); a gifted teacher, a veterinarian, a policeman, and others.
The baker encourages the children to garden and he uses that garden not only as a metaphor for life lessons, but also and perhaps more importantly, to teach the children higher level thinking skills like analysis and synthesis.
Overview
An eccentric Swedish baker mentors three interesting children. The protagonist, Dalgliesh (Dogleash,) is a black-Scottish boy whose name and mixed heritage cause him low self-esteem. Fredericka (Freddie) is a bright, forward-thinking girl who collects words and experiences. Her younger brother, Hank, is full of tag-along energy and fun, and he turns out to be surprisingly brave.
Other characters cause plot complications. The antagonist, Audrey/Stoneface, is the leader of a ...