We’re in the darkest part of winter; many of us are miring through days of cold and snow. Some fantasize about tropical beaches, while others dream of testing their endurance in icy winter sports. Gary Paulsen is an acclaimed children’s book writer whose Woodsong is a magnificent memoir about his dogs and their training for Alaska’s famous dog race, the Iditarod. In this classic, the reader feels the author’s love of the woods, the snow, his dogs, as well as the thrill of the two-week race. Our reviewer was enthralled by Woodsong, the perfect read for a dark night in front of a blazing fireplace. — February 4, 2013