Good Rosie!
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Kate DiCamillo's picture book Good Rosie!, illustrated by Harry Bliss, is an endearing story about dogs making friends. It's pretty likely to be a hit with early readers, especially those who already love dogs, but it's also a great read-aloud choice with highly detailed, appealing illustrations that help tell the story. Kids facing new social scenes (such as preschool or school) will find it easy to relate to little terrier Rosie, who'd like to have a friend but is overwhelmed and scared by all the dogs she doesn't know at the dog park. There's a definite teachable moment about rough play as Maurice, a large but clueless dog, "plays" with tiny Fifi by shaking her like a rag doll, and Rosie has to bite his leg to make him stop. All ends well and the three become BFFs, with much better understanding.
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What's the Story?
Little dog Rosie lives happily with her human, George, who frequently calls her GOOD ROSIE! He eventually figures out she's lonely for dog friends, and takes her to the dog park. At first she doesn't like the other dogs and just wants to go home. Things are scary at first, but soon she, big dog Maurice, and tiny dog Fifi figure out ways to get past their differences and have fun.
Is It Any Good?
Kate DiCamillo's light, humorous touch and Harry Bliss's lively character illustrations make this tale of a little terrier's first trip to the dog park a great story. And it's a natural for kids facing new group situations, such as starting preschool or kindergarten. There's a lot to love in Good Rosie!, especially about friend-making skills and the fact that rough play may not be for everyone.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the dog park in Good Rosie! How does it compare to dog parks you've seen? Why do dogs have such fun there? Do they need to run around to be happy?
When you first met the people who are your friends now, did you get along right away? Or were there some awkward moments like Rosie and her friends have in the story?
What kinds of things are better to do with friends?
Book Details
- Author: Kate DiCamillo
- Illustrator: Harry Bliss
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Cats, Dogs, and Mice, Friendship
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Candlewick
- Publication date: September 4, 2018
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 5 - 8
- Number of pages: 32
- Available on: Hardback
- Last updated: October 30, 2020
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For kids who love books about animals and friendship
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