Mr. Scruff

Reach for this book when your child feels like an outlier or worries that they don't 'match' the groups around them. It is a perfect choice for children navigating the pressures of fitting in, whether at school or in a new social circle. The story follows a series of perfect pairs: dogs and owners who look alike and even have rhyming names. Then there is Mr. Scruff, a dog who seems to fit nowhere, and Jim, a boy who doesn't fit the pattern either. This gentle, humorous tale shifts the focus from superficial similarities to deep, soul-level connections. Through Simon James's signature pen-and-ink illustrations, children see that belonging isn't about physical appearance or clever labels. It is about being seen and chosen for who you are. Parents will appreciate how it validates the feeling of being 'the odd one out' while providing a joyful, comforting resolution that celebrates unique friendships.