Love That Dog

Jack is a student who starts the year claiming that boys don't write poetry. Through a series of diary-like poems responding to his teacher, Miss Stretchberry, and various famous poets, Jack gradually learns to express his grief over his dog, Sky, who was killed by a car. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The book deals directly with the death of a pet. The approach is realistic and secular, focusing on the internal emotional process of a child. The resolution is hopeful and cathartic, showing that while the loss is permanent, the love and memories can be channeled into art. EMOTIONAL ARC: The book begins with a defensive, slightly humorous tone. It builds slowly in vulnerability, peaking with the heartbreaking revelation of Sky's accident, before ending on a note of confidence and pride in Jack's creative growth. IDEAL READER: A boy in 3rd to 5th grade who feels 'stuck' or uninspired in school, particularly one who has experienced loss and needs a safe, low-pressure way to see those feelings mirrored. PARENT TRIGGER: The description of the mud-splattered blue car hitting Sky is short but vivid and can be very upsetting for sensitive children or parents who have lost a pet in a similar way. PARENT PREP: Parents should be aware that the 'twist' is the specific way the dog died. It can be read cold, but be ready for a cry. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger readers will focus on the dog and the fun of the poetry styles. Older readers will appreciate the nuances of Jack's developing self-confidence and the meta-commentary on how we use art to survive hard times. DIFFERENTIATOR: Its unique format as a series of responses to famous poems (like those by William Carlos Williams) makes it both a story and a primer on poetic appreciation.