The New Cadets is Book 1 in the series, The Dream Rangers, by Marjorie Burns, that weaves the stories of dogs who learn how to become Dream Rangers, that is, nighttime caretakers of sleeping children within the nebulous world of dreams. Pre-order Book 1 now at Trout Lake Press! Book 2 is scheduled for December 2025!
Who Are The Dream Rangers?
This is the story of how dogs become Dream Rangers. It is a children’s series of books for grownups as well as books for kids.
The dogs begin their lives in toy stores. They are recruited by a special team of humans who can talk to toy dogs. Why? Well, they are just extra sensitive people and the toys are as well. The humans then take the dogs to a unique land called Crossover, where the dogs, now stuffed toys no longer but living and breathing dogs, attend the Academy. Naturally, the dogs are able to talk, read books, and work computers (with big keys). Soon they are learning Academy songs, studying the history of Crossover, and attaining the skills of a Dream Ranger.
Many adventures accompany them on this journey before they deploy on assignments that help the sleep of real children.
These books work as conversation-starting adventures as well as bedtime stories. For example, the reader can find out how we learn to use our five senses and how we ‘get’ an idea. Learn why this story happened to become a real book.
Who are the dogs?
Jack: a handsome, intelligent German Shepherd, who needs rescuing.
What is the setting?
We can’t tell you where Crossover lies, but we can tell you about it. We can describe the Academy in Crossover where the dogs experience an education that transforms their lives. We can relate to their adventures as they meet the Variable Sea and the Shifting Hills. We can feel the mystery of the Zilch or the fog they meet in the Lower Valley. The dogs may find that they can’t always learn the answers to everything. However, they do learn to enter children’s dreams and guide them to a safe awakening. Learn more about Crossover.
Who are the creators?
What are people saying?
“An enjoyable and imaginative series opener, with teaser threads left dangling. A joyful frolic.”
Kirkus Review
Link to full quote
Link to full quote“With dog heroes, adventure, excitement and intrigue all mixed up with the best of human values, this book is a fascinating kaleidoscope both for children and adults.”
Ingrid A. Spies
Link to full quote“This imaginative book written by Marjorie Burns is geared to children, but it will delight dog lovers of all ages.”
Mary Henle
“Can’t wait for more in the series.
Bought extra for gifts!
Delightful stories enhanced with illustrations!”Peter D. Van Vorous
Link to full quote“This story represents compassion using imagination and some fantasy. . . Thank goodness for the illustrations. They add so much to the story, and represent the characters as living, breathing dogs.”
Carol D. Foley
“Bravo for an intriguing story that teaches the values we need today. Marjorie Burns is a skillful writer in creating the tension and the delight that pulled me along. . . Each dog’s personality is captured in the line drawings by Carolyn Wilhelm. I bought more books for other families.”
Oralee Hamilton
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The Dream Rangers 