About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is relentlessly asking for a puppy or when the family is preparing to welcome a new dog home. It serves as a gentle and realistic primer on pet ownership, moving beyond the initial excitement to show the day to day responsibilities involved. The story follows a young girl named Lizzie as she gets a new puppy, Gus. It realistically portrays the joys of playing and cuddling alongside the challenges of house training, nighttime whining, and daily walks. This book is perfect for ages 4 to 8, as it opens a conversation about empathy, commitment, and the work that goes into caring for another living being, helping to set healthy expectations from the start.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
There are no significant sensitive topics. The approach is secular and direct. The challenges of pet ownership (like cleaning up messes) are presented factually and without drama. The resolution is entirely hopeful, ending with the strong bond formed between Lizzie and Gus.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is a 4 to 7 year old child who is either actively campaigning for a dog or whose family is in the process of getting one. It is for the child who sees a puppy as a living toy and needs a gentle introduction to the concept of a pet as a responsibility. It's also a comforting read for a child in their first week with a new puppy, normalizing the less glamorous parts of the experience.
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