About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is grappling with the profound sadness of losing a beloved pet. It provides a gentle, hopeful way to explore grief through a lens of wonder and magical possibility. The story follows Daniel, a boy heartbroken after his dog, Eli, dies. When a new dog appears who mysteriously knows all of Eli's old secrets, Daniel and his family must navigate their loss while solving the puzzle of this new companion. It beautifully handles themes of grief, family connection, and how love continues after loss. For ages 9 to 13, it offers comfort and a safe space to process difficult feelings without being overwhelmingly sad.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with the death of a pet, which occurs before the story begins. The approach is secular and uses magical realism (the possibility of reincarnation) as a central coping mechanism. The resolution is both hopeful and realistic: Daniel comes to love Gus for who he is, accepting that Eli is gone but that his love for him remains. It validates the idea of a spiritual connection continuing after death without being overtly religious.
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