You know well by now how we are a book loving family. We received Charley’s First Night by Amy Hest and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury recently. The first night we read it at bedtime it was immediately asked to be read a second time and there was no argument from me. This book shows the care and compassion that a little boy named Henry has for his new puppy named Charley. My kids especially loved the last page of the book that shows Charley sleeping in Henry’s bed beside him with the covers pulled up to his head. This is a sweet tale of the beginning of that special bond between a boy and his dog and my kids definitely relate as our dogs are their buddies as well.
On Charley’s first night, Henry carries his new puppy in his old baby blanket all the way to his house. He shows Charley every room, saying, “This is home, Charley.” He says that a lot so that Charley will know that he is home. Henry’s parents are very clear about who will be walking and feeding Charley (Henry will, and he can’t wait). They are also very clear about where Charley will be sleeping: Charley will be sleeping in the kitchen. But when the crying starts in the middle of the night, Henry knows right away that it’s Charley! And it looks like his parents’ idea about where Charley is going to sleep may have to change. With warmth, humor, and endearing simplicity, Amy Hest tells a tale familiar to everyone who has loved a puppy, while Helen Oxenbury renders each tender gesture and charming detail in a beauty of a book that children will be eager to take home.
Candlewick Press is sponsoring a giveaway on Mommy Ramblings. One lucky blog reader will win their own hardcover copy of Charley’s First Night! Thank you Candlewick Press for the review copy and for sponsoring this great giveaway on Mommy Ramblings!!! Open to US residents.
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