A collie dog named Friday creeps through the night with her master. They have 1000 sheep in their sights, and they are planning to steal them!

This sophisticated picture book tells the story of Scotsman James Mackenzie and his faithful sheepdog. Their famous sheep heist in 1855 has gone down in NZ history, with the mountain pass they used named after them. (The Mackenzie Pass and the Mackenzie Basin in the South Island includes NZ’s highest mountains, beautiful lakes and stunning scenery.)

Alone, Mackenzie and his dog stole 1000 sheep from under the noses of two shepherds. Although soon captured, James Mackenzie and his Friday became a legend in the area due to their skill and daring, with a bronze statue in their likeness now standing at the entrance to the South Island’s Mackenzie Country.

The gorgeous illustrations by Raymond McGrath have a retro feel through the colours, with almost a linocut look to them. The action in this exciting tale of cunning and courage is wonderfully depicted by experienced author and animal lover Susan Brocker. Readers will be relieved to learn that Mackenzie’s furry companion lived a safe and happy life after her master was captured.

Perfect for any animal lover or primary school classroom. Would make a wonderful junior Read Aloud.

Author – Susan Brocker

Illustrator – Raymond McGrath

Age – 5+

(Dog, Scholastic, NZ, New Zealand, Legend, Folk heroes, Sheep rustling, Mountains, Escape, Capture, Cunning, Trained sheepdog, Scottish, Farming, South Island, Sth Island, Crime, Historical, Narrative Non Fiction)