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Tuesday Tucks Me In: The Loyal Bond between a Soldier and his Service Dog

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From former U.S. Army Captain and New York Times bestselling author of Until Tuesday, comes what Amazon.com has declared the "Best Nonfiction Children's Book of 2014." As narrated by Tuesday,  Tuesday Tucks Me In  is a day in the life of this service dog extraordinaire and tail-wagging ambassador for all things positive and uplifting in the world. The book takes us through a typical day of adventures, starting with Tuesday waking Luis in the morning and greeting him with dog breath in the face, and then ending with Tuesday cuddling up to Luis on their bed, the last moment they spend together before sleep.

40 pages, Hardcover

First published May 27, 2014

8 people are currently reading
1593 people want to read

About the author

Luis Carlos Montalván

8 books344 followers
LUIS CARLOS MONTALVÁN is an award-winning New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and advocate. TUESDAY is Montalván's beloved service dog and the recipient of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Humane Fund Award for Canine Excellence (ACE) - Service Dog.

A 17-year veteran of the U.S. Army, Captain Montalván served multiple tours abroad and was decorated with numerous awards including two Bronze Stars, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal for Valor, and the Combat Action Badge. In 2007, Capt. Montalván honorably departed the military and in 2010 completed a master's of science from Columbia University's Graduate School of Journalism.

Recently, Montalván's inspirational memoir won the 2012 USA Best Book Award in the Autobiography/Memoir & Audiobook Non-fiction categories. He was a finalist for a 2012 APA Audie Award beside four other nominees including Tina Fey and Michael Moore. Until Tuesday was also a 2012 International Latino Book Awards finalist. Luis is the recipient of a 2011 Voice Award and the 2011 Invisible Hero Honors Award for his efforts to educate the public about trauma and the real experiences of veterans and people with disabilities.

Montalván is a vocal advocate. His work has been published in outlets including The New York Times, Washington Post, San Francisco Chronicle and Military Review, and regularly appears on local, national, and global media. Among the outlets that he and Tuesday have been featured on are NPR, CNN, National Geographic and The Late Show with David Letterman.

Tuesday Tucks Me In, their first children's book (Macmillan), was selected by Amazon.com as the "Best Nonfiction Children's Book of 2014." Most recently, the Children's Book Council (CBC) and the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) selected Tuesday Tucks Me In a "2015 Notable Social Studies Trade Book for Young People."

Luis & Tuesday frequently lecture and offer dynamic programs about their work and are advocating extensively during travel this year.

For more information, please visit www.until-tuesday.com or www.tuesdaytucksmein.com

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5 stars
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100 (8%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews
Profile Image for Mischenko.
1,023 reviews94 followers
June 4, 2017
To see this review and to learn more about Luis Carlos Montalván, please visit www.readrantrockandroll.com

Tuesday Tucks me In: is a true story about a service dog and his owner, Luis. The story is told from Tuesday's point of view as he explains their typical day together in NYC.

Luis is a disabled veteran. He went to war, and he came back home in so much pain that he couldn't live a normal life. So I do tasks for him. I even sleep with him which helps control his nightmares.

Luis has issues like PTSD that cause him to have flashbacks. He doesn't like crowds or being too close to people and Tuesday has the training to keep him calm and collected. He's exceptionally smart and senses when Luis is having issues by feeling his heartbeat-he can tell when a panic attack is about to happen. They do everything together and are inseparable. They take care of each other and they even pray together.

I enjoyed the end note from Luis which explains more about service dogs and the organization that trains them. This book will help children understand roles that service dogs play as well as an understanding about people with disabilities. They will also gain insight into the sacrifices that people make for their country. Loved it.

5*****

After reading this children's book, I found Until Tuesday which is about Luis and Tuesday's relationship as well as the experiences Luis had in the military and beyond. You can see my review here.
Profile Image for Carmen.
2,069 reviews2,405 followers
December 14, 2015
This is the true story of Luis Carlos Montalván and his service dog, Tuesday. Luis Carlos has PTSD, traumatic brain injury, and chronic pain. This book is great because 1.) it's funny, 2.) it's cute, and 3.) it teaches children about service dogs.

The book walks the child through Luis Carlos's day with Tuesday. First, Tuesday wakes Luis Carlos up. He brings him the dog bowl, the shoes, the socks and reminds Luis Carlos to take his medicine.

Luis is a disabled veteran. He went to war, and he came back home in so much pain that he couldn't live a normal life. So I do tasks for him. I even sleep with him, which helps control his nightmares.

The book discusses flashbacks and how Tuesday can sense Luis Carlos's heartbeat.


The book is great mainly due to the highly expressive face on the dog, Tuesday. The funniest picture is Tuesday getting his teeth brushed. He has very human expressions which will delight children (and adults). He is a golden retriever and very beautiful.

Another good thing children will like is a picture of Tuesday sleeping under a bathroom stall door (the book mentions that Tuesday accompanies Luis Carlos even there.) Later in the book, we also see Tuesday lifting his leg to a fire hydrant. These little realistic touches add, I think, and might get a giggle from the children.


You can see how intensely Luis Carlos loves his dog and what an essential part of his life the dog has become in every single page.


I don't think the book talks enough about how important it is not to pet service dogs when they are working. There should be a page stressing that, and there is NOT. You might want to go over this rule with the children in your life. ALSO, this book would be a great opportunity to talk about the men and women who serve in the military. What are veterans? Are all veterans disabled like Luis Carlos? You can also talk about war and it's effects. (Varies child by child, use your own judgment.)


Tl;dr - Overall I was delighted and enchanted by this informative yet fun book. The photographs are really stellar. Props to Dan Dion because his pictures are amazing. Great job, Dan! You should also use this book as an opportunity to cover important topics with children. Highly recommended.

Ages 0-6.
Profile Image for Dan Dion.
Author 6 books25 followers
February 25, 2015
How could I not love this book? I took all the photos! And Tuesday is an amazing dog, while Luis is inspiring. Great to read to preschoolers and kinders, and perfect for early readers.
Profile Image for Jon Nakapalau.
6,356 reviews967 followers
March 6, 2021
This book really hit me hard - if you know of a small child who has a family member or friend who suffers from PTSD/TBI this book will help them understand some of the challenges that person faces. Thank you CPT. Montalvan for your service - you make me proud to have been a member of the U.S. Army.
Profile Image for Shannon.
3 reviews3 followers
May 29, 2014
Tuesday Tucks Me In is pure love right from the start with the gorgeous photo of Tuesday on the front cover! I read about Tuesday and Luis in Until Tuesday and now as a children's book their amazing story is brought to life through the eyes of Tuesday. In it children will be invited into a day in their life together. Tuesday has such an expressive and enthusiastic way of telling his story that kids will no doubt be captivated. And for big kids like myself too! What's especially great to me about this book is the education that it will provide about the importance of service dogs to those who really need assistance. Kids and adults alike will learn how much a person like Luis benefits from having an amazing service dog such as Tuesday!
Profile Image for Julie.
2,463 reviews34 followers
December 4, 2014
I love this book! The picture of Luis & Tuesday praying together just about did me in. What an amazing story of a beautiful friendship between a man and his dog. The pictures are beautiful and the words are outstanding also. Luis is able to face the challenge of each day living with the aftermath of injuries, both psychological and physical, due to his amazing bond with Tuesday.
Profile Image for Christi Dorsey.
1 review18 followers
May 30, 2014
Touching, heartfelt and informative....exactly what I expected. With beautiful color photo's and an easy to understand story line, you will be moved and changed by this book. I was changed by the previous book, "Until Tuesday." I encourage everyone, young and older to read it and to share it and its message with all of your friends and family. It is worthy of donating a copy to your local school and local city library. Invite Luis and Tuesday to an event and let them show you in person the bond they share. I would give it ten stars if I could.
Profile Image for Kirsten.
2,137 reviews111 followers
August 31, 2014
This is a superb children's book that handles the concepts of PTSD and of service dogs exceptionally well. The language used is age-appropriate, but doesn't talk down to kids at all; by using the perspective of Luis's service dog, the story describes the physical and psychological effects of war in a matter-of-fact and grounded way. The photos are beautiful and vibrant as well. There is just so much to love about this book. Definitely a worthy addition to any library or classroom collection.
Profile Image for Jan.
1,885 reviews95 followers
July 27, 2014
I applaud your decision to do a children's book that teaches our young about service dogs, the help and assistance they provide and what service dogs mean to their challenged owners. Understanding diversity is paramount in our society and this beautiful book will be instrumental in aiding that understanding at an early age.
Profile Image for Mary Mullane.
148 reviews2 followers
May 31, 2014
A very sweet book complete with color photos showing Luis and Tuesday from the time they wake up until the end of their day. This is a great book to introduce kids (and adults) to the important role service dogs play in our lives--especially a veteran living with PTSD. Thank you, Luis and Tuesday, for giving us this glimpse into your lives!
Profile Image for Ann.
389 reviews
March 23, 2015
This book is a beautifully done (and badly needed) children's
book about the day of a disabled vet and his golden retriever service dog -- from the viewpoint of the dog. Tuesday goes everywhere with Luis (even the bathroom stall which has a picture of Tuesday under the stall door that children will love).

Some of the words and concepts will need explanation for the very young, but nothing is said in a scary way. This simply describes how soldiers can still hurt, have nightmares and flashbacks, and need the support of a trained dog. The love and caring between the two are so very clear thru words and photos.

This book is wonderful. For those who aren't already personally involved, can't think of a better introduction to the notions that military service often extends beyond discharge and the wonderful interaction between a person in need and his canine therapy.
Profile Image for Julie.
1,496 reviews
August 22, 2015
My whole family loved this story about the bond between Tuesday and the author, the Iraq veteran he serves, who is a writer and an advocate for veterans and for all people with disabilities. The photographs of Luis and Tuesday going through their daily routines are very sweet, yet children who read the book will learn about the struggles of wounded vets, including nightmares, PTSD, fear of crowds and loud noises, and the stress, anger, and pain that they often feel. Man's best friend indeed - the love and care that these two have for each other shines through in every photograph.
Profile Image for babyhippoface.
2,443 reviews145 followers
September 23, 2014
This is an excellent book about the life of a soldier with post traumatic stress disorder and a traumatic brain injury and how his service dog helps him in his everyday life. Any school that has a significant military population needs this book in the collection.
Profile Image for Jackie.
Author 15 books6 followers
February 9, 2017
I ordered Tuesday Tucks Me In two months ago from my local library. When I learned that this book was on hold for me on Friday July 25th I was so excited. I started reading this wonderful book before I even left the library.
Tuesday Tucks Me In is a wonderful children's book that explains gently to children what the day in a life of a service dog is like. Luis Carlos Montalvan describes his day with Tuesday through the morning routine, trips to his doctors and the stress he has to overcome because of his PTSD. And Tuesday is always there helping Luis through every moment letting Luis know he isn't alone because he is right by his side.
Tuesday Tucks Me In is a wonderful book written with tenderness, gentleness and lots and lots of love. I love Tuesday Tucks Me In because of how this book makes me feel - a part of Luis and Tuesday's life for a day and knowing this is a one of a kind book that is a true gift from the heart.
Profile Image for Nathalie.
1,074 reviews12 followers
May 5, 2015
This is the sweetest book I've read in a while. This is told from the point of view of Tuesday the service dog. He describes how he helps former Captain Luis Montalvan get through the day. Luis is a decorated veteran who suffers from PTSD and traumatic brain injury following two tours of duty. Suffering tremendous pain, sleeping difficulty, nightmares, flashbacks, anger and shame about his condition, Luis withdrew from his friends, family and stopped leaving his apartment. Tuesday saved his life and brought him back to being able to live life. Tuesday can hear when Luis is experiencing a panic attack and he helps calm him down. Life can be stressful for both of them so Luis takes Tuesday to the dog park where he can have his service dog vest off and play like a regular dog. The sweetest page is a photo of Luis and Tuesday saying their prayers together before laying down to sleep. Tuesday sleeps in Luis's arm to help him deal with his nightmares. Have a tissue handy!
3,035 reviews13 followers
July 2, 2014
I rarely give a book five stars. To me, that requires something special, and this book qualifies.
The book tells several important stories. It teaches about the life of a service dog, but also an important story about how disabilities may not be visible and obvious.
The photos by Dan Dion were absolutely wonderful, from the close-up photo of what it's like to wake up with a dog's face close to yours, to the joyful and playful aspects of the "off-duty" dog, the photos are an essential part of telling the story.
The physical and emotional scars of the former soldier are portrayed in a way not too terrifying for children, so that they can focus on the hurt, rather than the scars.
I would recommend this for any child old enough to wonder about the difference between a service dog and a regular pet.
Profile Image for Pamela.
2 reviews41 followers
June 2, 2014
Great read not just for children but adults as well. Short and sweet; so very sweet. Beautiful photos of Luis and his trained service dog Tuesday. Informative in a gentle way about Luis's struggle with PTSD and TBI. I must confess, Luis story and his relationship with Tuesday made me cry. Kudos to photographer Dan Dion for capturing those daily moments between Luis and Tuesday that will pull at your heartstrings! The note from Luis on the last two pages was interesting as he described the training of service dogs and how important they are to the healing process and every day living of disabled individuals. Luis also provided websites for the readers who want to find out more about service dogs and wounded warriors. Truly enjoyed this book, you will too!
2 reviews
June 25, 2014
June is National PTSD Awareness Month. By reading "Tuesday Tucks Me In," children are able to gently learn about PTSD and the challenges that Luis faces. Written from Tuesday's perspective, the beautiful photographs chronicle Tuesday's and Luis' day-to-day activities, and shows how Tuesday encourages and helps Luis to live a fulfilling & joyous life. Luis returns the favor by taking such good care of his constant companion. It's easy for children to understand that the strong bond between this duo is based on trust, love, and respect. Children (and adults!) will learn, sometimes with humor, the importance of being kind to and accepting of others. Please spread the word about this wonderful book, it's a must-read for "children of all ages!"
Profile Image for Cindy.
19 reviews
July 21, 2014
Not maudlin, not sad, not cutesy, not fairy tale, this is a wonderful book for small children. Tuesday Tucks Me In tells the story of a day in the life of the golden retriever Tuesday and his special companion, Luis Montalvan. It handles difficult topics - PTSD and disabilities, shows the responsibilities of dog ownership (grooming and teeth-brushing to name two) as well as the pleasures of the dog park. Throughout, it is illustrated with beautiful photographs.

Highly recommended for children and their parents.
Profile Image for Kifflie.
1,543 reviews4 followers
November 22, 2014
This book is hard to resist, starting right with the front cover photo of Tuesday the golden retriever. Goldens are one of my favorite breeds, and this dog is so smart and so adorable. And kudos to disabled vet Luis Carlos Montalvan, who lets the reader right into his life, with all of its joys, pains, and difficulties.

What better way to teach youngsters about caring for those with disabilities, and our canine friends, at the same time?

The photos by Dan Dion are masterfully done.

Give this to anyone who loves dogs and people.
Profile Image for Pam.
9 reviews1 follower
November 16, 2014
I love this book, and my upper elementary school students do, too! "Tuesday Tucks Me In" is a very well-told tale that is an age-appropriate companion book for "Until Tuesday." It conveys important messages about service dogs, their importance to those they assist, and that not all wounds caused by war are visible. Written from Tuesday's point of view, this book informs and entertains at the same time. This book needs to be available to every child in all school libraries and public libraries!

R E A D T H I S B O O K ! ! !
Profile Image for Ina.
1,267 reviews14 followers
June 22, 2016
What an extraordinary book! Beautiful pictures and simple text combine to tell the tale of an Iraqi war vet and his service dog, Tuesday. The reader is taken through a day in the life of Luis and Tuesday - days filled with love and challenges and growth. There is humor, there is evidence of a deep bond between dog and human and there is the ever present love. Every reader will fall in love with this extraordinary dog/human team.
Profile Image for Katt Hansen.
3,834 reviews107 followers
December 17, 2014
Tuesday is a service dog who is helping a soldier with PTSD and other physical ailments. Here we have an easy to understand book for children that gives what a day looks like for them together. Wonderfully presented, beautiful story. I will hunt down "Until Tuesday" - the book written for adults by this author. I'm glad I picked this up today.
Profile Image for Krista.
336 reviews
February 10, 2015
Touching story of the bond between a disabled veteran and his service dog. Told from the point-of-view of the dog, Tuesday. This story is one that will stick with you for awhile. I read it to my fourth grade students and they loved it and were touched by it like I was. Just a beautiful story and what wonderful thinking and empathy students were able to elicit after reading.
Profile Image for Kelly.
10 reviews
December 4, 2014
I had the pleasure and honor of being able to hear the author read this in person when he was touring here in Denver this summer. This book would make a wonderful gift for children of all ages. Thank you Luis & Tuesday for all your are doing. Happy Holidays.
Profile Image for Gayle.
553 reviews7 followers
October 9, 2015
It's a day in the life through the eyes of delightful Tuesday - a service dog and his relationship with his wounded warrior, war veteran, Luis.

The story is about how they assist each other and ultimately how they, in turn serve others.

This is wonderful for young and old alike.
1,087 reviews131 followers
April 13, 2018
This is a photo book written from the perspective of “Tuesday”, a Golden Retriever service dog. His owner is Luis and is a war veteran. The story outlines a day in their lives. It is an interesting and effective way to explain the role of a service dog to children.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 250 reviews

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