Book

Maftu was afraid of the sea. It had taken his mother when he was a baby, and it seemed to him that the sea gods sought vengeance at having been cheated of Mafatu. So, though he was the son of the Great Chief of Hikueru, a race of Polynesians who worshipped courage, and he was named Stout Heart, he feared and avoided the sea, till everyone branded him a coward. When he could no longer bear their taunts and jibes, he determined to conquer that fear or be conquered-- so he went off in his canoe, alone except for his little dog and pet albatross. A storm gave him his first challenge.

Some dogs have a bark bigger than their bite. But Sweetie, the Great Dane, can't afford to bark—or bite. After three little nips and three masters, the next stop is the pound. So when the burglar comes calling, he waves his tail. When coyotes come prowling, he tries to make peace—as they howl in scorn. They promise they'll return—to eat his food, his friends, Red the Irish Setter, Poky the Beagle, and Sweetie for dessert! If Sweetie can't protect them they'll all perish! How can he outfox twelve hungry coyotes?

Ellen Toliver is shocked to learn that her grandfather is a patriot spy. Then he's injured on the day of an important mission - and she's the only one who can take his place. It's the last thing shy, timid Ellen wants to do, but her grandfather, and her country, are depending on her.