WHEN ROSIE WALKS GEORGE

Young Rosie and the family dog exemplify interspecies, intergenerational friendship—with a touch of Zen.

“George is old and deaf in one ear, and he doesn’t run fast anymore.” These words set the stage for a tender tale with a whisper of a plot. George, a brown and white dog, snoozes comfortably in a patterned chair, surrounded by framed photographs of him as a puppy with the same three children who are peering at him through a nearby window. “But,” we’re told, “he still needs a walk. So, the family takes turns walking George.” Simple, colorful vignettes introduce Mother, Dad, and “the big kids.” Another image depicts the entire family walking on a sandy path toward the beach, with the youngest, Rosie, trailing behind and playing with her red ball. Each time an older family member tries to rush George, “He steps. And stops.” He slowly observes his surroundings, and he always “keeps an eye on Rosie.” When Rosie’s ball is swept out to sea, the family gathers around to comfort her. George sits and waits all day and all night until the tide returns the ball, so he can give it to Rosie. By story’s end, Rosie is old enough to walk George. Now the friends practice their art of appreciation together, treating readers to one last round of sweet repetition and an impressive, shimmering sunset. Family members have skin tones in varying shades of brown.

Gentle and comforting.