Mandy Foot has become a familiar name in our house after we enjoyed ‘Knick knack bushwhack‘ the fun sing-along with gorgeous illustrations. So when her new book came out we couldn’t wait to experience it. Yes, that is exactly what we do with picture books. We soak up the illustrations and live the story!
I must start by drooling over the endpapers which are glorious pencil sketches of Joey and Riley growing up and having fun. The endpapers work as a back story, introducing Riley when he was an adorable puppy, and stills of them both having fun on the farm. The endpaper at the back takes us into the future as Joey and Riley continue to grow and have fun.
The story is a beautiful celebration of the relationship between a boy and his dog and we get a glimpse of the adventures of farm life. But when they have to move to the city, Riley has to stay back with Pop.
Mr 6 loved this story. He read this one on his own first and excitedly exclaimed ‘There’s a twist at the end!!” He has also started to appreciate the artwork in the books he reads and was intrigued by the brush strokes used to create Riley.
A beautiful book with a heartwarming story, must-have addition to any picture book collection.
Suggested age: Read aloud to 2+. Read by self 5+. Recommended for an intermediate reader.
Published by Lothian Children’s Books, Hachette Australia, 2019
