Dr. Karra to the Rescue: A Must-Read Children’s Book for Animal Lovers
Families looking for an inspiring new children’s book should keep an eye on Dr. Karra to the Rescue, releasing June 16th. This engaging nonfiction title introduces young readers to the world of wildlife rescue, veterinary medicine, and animal conservation through the real-life work of a wildlife veterinarian.

Written by Christy Gove, Dr. Karra to the Rescue follows Dr. Karra, a veterinarian at the Wildlife Center of Virginia, as she treats injured wild animals and helps them heal. The book is designed to capture the attention of children who love animals while also teaching them about science, compassion, and environmental responsibility.
What is Dr. Karra to the Rescue about?
Dr. Karra to the Rescue is a children’s nonfiction picture book centered on the rescue and care of wild animals. Through a series of real cases, young readers see how Dr. Karra responds when animals are hurt and need expert care. The book features several animal patients, including:
- a baby opossum attacked by a dog
- a young owl suffering from lead poisoning
- a turtle hit by a car
- a robin injured by a cat
- a ring-necked snake caught on a glue trap
Each story gives readers a close-up look at the challenges wild animals face and the important role wildlife veterinarians play in helping them survive.

More Than a Story: What Young Readers Will Learn
This title offers more than animal stories. It gives children a clear, age-appropriate introduction to:
- what a wildlife veterinarian does
- how injured wild animals are treated
- why wildlife conservation matters
- how human actions can affect animals and habitats
- how young readers can become more aware of the natural world
Because the stories are based on real events and connected to the work of the Wildlife Center of Virginia, the book has strong educational value. At the same time, its storytelling approach keeps the reading experience warm, accessible, and memorable.
Why Parents, Teachers, and Librarians Will Love This Book
Dr. Karra to the Rescue is especially well suited for families, educators, and librarians seeking children’s books about animals, STEM books for kids, or books about veterinarians and wildlife rescue. It combines real science with emotional storytelling, making it a strong fit for classroom discussions, library displays, homeschool reading lists, and summer reading recommendations.
The book may be especially appealing to children who dream of working with animals one day. By presenting wildlife medicine in a relatable and inspiring way, it helps young readers imagine how they, too, might make a difference.
With its blend of true animal rescue stories, educational content, and heart, Dr. Karra to the Rescue is positioned to connect with readers looking for books that entertain while also teaching empathy and care for the natural world.
About the Author: Christy Gove
Christy Gove began writing children’s nonfiction after an eagle rescue at her parents’ cabin inspired her debut book, Esther the Eaglet. Since then, she has focused on sharing true stories of injured wildlife, the people who care for them, and the lessons they teach about stewardship.
She works closely with wildlife professionals, including those at the Wildlife Center of Virginia, to create books that are both accurate and engaging for young readers. Through her books and events, she encourages children to see themselves as helpers and protectors of the natural world.
Christy is the author of six books, including Maggie the One-Eyed Peregrine Falcon, Greta the Great Horned Owl, Bailey the Bear Needs Help!, and Dr. Karra to the Rescue.


