Picked by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the unknown wilds of the Louisiana Territory Meriwether Lewis assembles a rugged team of adventurers including co-captain William Clark-and a Newfoundland dog named Seaman. As hunter retriever and guard Seaman becomes a trusted member of the Corps of Discovery. While the team tackles raging rivers and muddy shallows Seaman is there-sharing their hunger and fatigue. Whether Indians threaten or grizzlies roar he stands his ground. And through mountain peak or valley deep Seaman remains a watchful friend and determined foe. Laurence Pringle-one of America's premier nonfiction writers for young people-has garnered critical acclaim for 'turning natural history and science into page-turning reading' (Booklist). Relying on journal accounts Pringle delivers a dog-centered narrative of the 8000-mile Lewis and Clark expedition from its harrowing beginning to its triumphant end in 1806. To fill gaps in the historical record Pringle imagines details of Seaman's vital role. '. a richly detailed . intriguing . treasure trove of information about the expedition and the dog that was its most unusual participant.'-Library Journal 'Full of adventure and excitement this book contains a wonderful mix of intriguing stories and historical facts.'-Childhood Education