Grief, loss, trauma, moving house, family, empathy
My Dog
by Olivia Wakeford
Key information
Author: Olivia Wakeford
Illustrator: David Litchfield
Release Date: 27th February 2025
Book type: Chapter, 288 pages
Star rating: ★★★★★
Reader level: Confident
Age: 8+
Overview
This story follows Rhys, a boy grieving his mam’s death while adjusting to a move from Wales to London.
Amid his pain, he finds a black lab - with acorn eyes and soft velvet ears - who seems to understand him like no one else. But there's only one problem: Dad doesn't like dogs, and there is no way he will let Worthington stay.
Desperate to keep his companion, Rhys finds ways to keep Worthington hidden while he prepares for his move to London. Worthington seems to be the best dog in the world, but some things just aren't adding up. He won't eat in front of Rhys, and he doesn't know how to play fetch.
Soon, Rhys becomes concerned for his dog's health and must race to see London's most famous vet for advice, even if that means exposing his biggest secrets. Can he get the help he needs in time, or is his world about to come crashing down around him?
Key concepts/themes
- grief
- loss of a parent
- trauma
- emotions
- love
- family
Considerations
- loss of a parent
- terminal illness
- grief
- moving house
- divorced parents
Curriculum links
PSHE -
- understanding grief
- coming to terms with loss
- seeking support
- family networks
- dealing with emotions
Vocabulary
| Tier 2 |
|---|
| grief, trauma, companionship, emotional support, |
Illustrations
Add comment
Comments