About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is experiencing deep anxiety over a pet's injury or a scary first trip to the veterinarian. It offers a calm, steady hand for children who feel helpless when they see an animal in pain, providing a mirror for their own worries about medical procedures and physical recovery. The story follows Christopher as he cares for his dog, Ben, after a painful encounter with a porcupine in the woods. While the situation is stressful, Carol Carrick focuses on the proactive steps Christopher takes to keep his dog safe and find a peaceful solution to the 'neighbor' in the woods. It is a gentle exploration of empathy and coexistence that is perfect for the 5 to 8 age range. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's protective instincts while teaching that nature, though sometimes prickly, can be managed with patience and understanding rather than anger.
