Dog Heaven

Author: Cynthia Rylant

Illustrator: Cynthia Rylant

Published: In 1995 by Blue Sky Press

ISBN: 978-0590417013

Synopsis:  

     Dog Heaven is Cynthia Rylant's first attempt at illustrating one of her children's books.  It is an endearing story that describes what Heaven is like for a dog.  It is filled with every wonderful experience a dog could imagine--including endless green pastures and uniquely shaped treats. The positive and playful mood can definitely help ease the pain of separation a child may feel after loosing their beloved pet.  

My Reaction:

    I really enjoyed the message of this story.  I feel that Dog Heaven effectively accomplishes its goal to help children through the grieving process after loosing a pet.  However, the references to God and Heaven prevent this book from being universally understood or accepted.  It requires the assumption that both Heaven and God exist and is therefore unacceptable to use in a  classroom setting.  Furthermore, the specific theme in the book is one that is best explored under certain circumstances.  Therefore, this book illustrates the fact that not all books are designed for everyone or every situation.  Some books simply exist for one purpose or context.  In this case, it is among family or religious groups when the topic of death is being explored.

 

My Rating (1-5 stars):

 

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