Henry Huggins

Reach for this book when your child is longing for a bit of independence or pleading for their first pet. It is the perfect antidote for a child who feels their daily life is a bit too routine and needs to see that magic and adventure can be found right on their own suburban street. Henry Huggins captures the essence of middle-childhood autonomy through the story of a boy who finds a stray dog and, in doing so, finds his own voice. While the setting is mid-century, the emotional core is timeless: the struggle to be responsible, the humor found in everyday mishaps, and the fierce loyalty between a boy and his dog. It models healthy problem-solving and perseverance through Henry's various schemes to earn money or keep Ribsy. It is a gentle, humorous, and deeply comforting read for elementary-aged children who are beginning to navigate the world on their own terms.