About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is navigating the heavy weight of family grief or witnessing a parent struggle with mental health during a time of crisis. Set against the harsh backdrop of the Oklahoma Dust Bowl, the story follows Jessie as she attempts to reach her father, who has withdrawn into deep depression following the death of Jessie's younger sister. It is a poignant exploration of how children often try to 'fix' their family's pain and the healing power of responsibility and connection. While the setting is historical, the emotional core is timelessly relevant for children ages 8 to 12. This book provides a safe space to discuss how trauma can change a person and how patience and love, symbolized through Jessie's bond with a wild dog, can slowly bring hope back to a household. It is a somber but ultimately resilient choice for families looking to validate feelings of loss and financial hardship.
