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My Dog
A life-affirming story of the extraordinary friendship between a boy and his dog. Perfect for fans of Hannah Gold, Katya Balen and Patrick Ness
THE STORY OF AN EXTRAORDINARY FRIENDSHIP.
‘Incredibly moving, tender and heartfelt’ Hannah Gold
‘A heart-melting book that shows us there’s always hope and love to be found even in the midst of grief’ Nizrana Farook
Ten-year-old Rhys really loves dogs. When he finds a lost black Labrador with big conker eyes and ears like soft velvet, he can’t quite believe his luck. Nobody comes forward to claim Worthington, giving Rhys the perfect opportunity to prove he’s a good owner. But when Rhys moves to London to live with his estranged dad who hates dogs, Rhys decides to keep Worthington secret.
Struggling to connect with his dad in a new city, Rhys takes comfort in Worthington. But he soon discovers that looking after a secret dog is anything but easy, and he knows that before long he’ll have to confront his fears and find a way to tell Dad…
Phenomenally moving and beautifully written, My Dog shows us that accepting the present doesn’t mean forgetting the past – in a story that will live with you for ever.
THE STORY OF AN EXTRAORDINARY FRIENDSHIP.
‘Incredibly moving, tender and heartfelt’ Hannah Gold
‘A heart-melting book that shows us there’s always hope and love to be found even in the midst of grief’ Nizrana Farook
Ten-year-old Rhys really loves dogs. When he finds a lost black Labrador with big conker eyes and ears like soft velvet, he can’t quite believe his luck. Nobody comes forward to claim Worthington, giving Rhys the perfect opportunity to prove he’s a good owner. But when Rhys moves to London to live with his estranged dad who hates dogs, Rhys decides to keep Worthington secret.
Struggling to connect with his dad in a new city, Rhys takes comfort in Worthington. But he soon discovers that looking after a secret dog is anything but easy, and he knows that before long he’ll have to confront his fears and find a way to tell Dad…
Phenomenally moving and beautifully written, My Dog shows us that accepting the present doesn’t mean forgetting the past – in a story that will live with you for ever.
- GenresMiddle GradeChildrens
288 pages, Paperback
Published February 27, 2025
10 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
September 1, 2025
Sometimes you begin a book and realise that resistance is futile because it has you hooked!! I couldn't out it down and devoured it over two days
My Dog, the debut book, by Olivia Wakeford is superb. This is the story of Rhys who has a deep love of dogs which he shared with his mum who sadly dies at the start of the book . Together they would watch a TV show called The Dog Rescuers presented by Rhys' idol Dr Jimmy. Rhys' dad comes to care for him but Rhys feels his dad doesn't understand him at all and feels resentful.
Rhys has lot eave his home in Wales, his beloved grandparents- Nan and Bampy and move to London where his father now lives with his new wife, Lucy , and young baby daughter Evie. Overcome with initial grief, Rhys takes refuge in his den and a lost black labrador named Worthington. But the time comes when he has to move to London; start a new life and a new school- but what can he do with Worthington- his dad doesn't like dogs.
This is a story about grief but also happiness and the desire to follow your dreams and passions. It also a tale about being open and truthful and building friendships ( Kayla is a brilliant character)
Rhys' inner turmoil and anxiety is palpable- How will he keep Worthington a secret once he gets him to London ? How we will he fit in at a new school and how will resolve a situation when he tells an almighty lie? How will ever get to meet Dr Jimmy at the Dog Rescuers live event?
Olivia Wakefield has created a wonderful story that will be a source of support for many children but also build understanding for young and old when tackling bereavement, changes of circumstances and what can happen if unspoken situations and issues aren't resolved.
The story of Rhys is told with deep compassion, sensitivity and warmth and highlights the bond that can exist between children and dogs.m
David Litchfield’s illustrations are beautiful
This has to be a highlight of children's fiction for 2025- reading age 10-12 and a powerful upper key stage 2 class read too.
A winner - highly recommended
My Dog, the debut book, by Olivia Wakeford is superb. This is the story of Rhys who has a deep love of dogs which he shared with his mum who sadly dies at the start of the book . Together they would watch a TV show called The Dog Rescuers presented by Rhys' idol Dr Jimmy. Rhys' dad comes to care for him but Rhys feels his dad doesn't understand him at all and feels resentful.
Rhys has lot eave his home in Wales, his beloved grandparents- Nan and Bampy and move to London where his father now lives with his new wife, Lucy , and young baby daughter Evie. Overcome with initial grief, Rhys takes refuge in his den and a lost black labrador named Worthington. But the time comes when he has to move to London; start a new life and a new school- but what can he do with Worthington- his dad doesn't like dogs.
This is a story about grief but also happiness and the desire to follow your dreams and passions. It also a tale about being open and truthful and building friendships ( Kayla is a brilliant character)
Rhys' inner turmoil and anxiety is palpable- How will he keep Worthington a secret once he gets him to London ? How we will he fit in at a new school and how will resolve a situation when he tells an almighty lie? How will ever get to meet Dr Jimmy at the Dog Rescuers live event?
Olivia Wakefield has created a wonderful story that will be a source of support for many children but also build understanding for young and old when tackling bereavement, changes of circumstances and what can happen if unspoken situations and issues aren't resolved.
The story of Rhys is told with deep compassion, sensitivity and warmth and highlights the bond that can exist between children and dogs.m
David Litchfield’s illustrations are beautiful
This has to be a highlight of children's fiction for 2025- reading age 10-12 and a powerful upper key stage 2 class read too.
A winner - highly recommended
February 24, 2025
Important note - no pets harmed in the making of this book
Second not - this hits hard emotionally, not sure how I would’ve handled it as a kid which is my only thing holding me back from 5 stars.
But it is beautiful, for fans of Skellig and The Final Year. A boy who loses his mum and finds a rescue lab all in the same day. But then more change…he has to leave wales, his grandparents his home, and go to London with his dad and new stepmom and baby sister and go to a new school and make friends. All while hiding this new dog.
All about the power of pets, how they help emotional health and maturity, and love of family. No wicked stepmoms in this story, just a loving family all around. And good disability visibility with natural diversity. Nothing forced.
A lovely story, but a hard one be prepared!
Second not - this hits hard emotionally, not sure how I would’ve handled it as a kid which is my only thing holding me back from 5 stars.
But it is beautiful, for fans of Skellig and The Final Year. A boy who loses his mum and finds a rescue lab all in the same day. But then more change…he has to leave wales, his grandparents his home, and go to London with his dad and new stepmom and baby sister and go to a new school and make friends. All while hiding this new dog.
All about the power of pets, how they help emotional health and maturity, and love of family. No wicked stepmoms in this story, just a loving family all around. And good disability visibility with natural diversity. Nothing forced.
A lovely story, but a hard one be prepared!
March 15, 2025
In her debut middle-grade novel, Olivia Wakeford delivers a poignant story that explores grief, family dynamics, and the special bond between a child and their dog. "My Dog," beautifully illustrated by David Litchfield, follows ten-year-old Rhys as he navigates the aftermath of his mother's death, a move to London with his estranged father, and his relationship with a mysterious black Labrador named Worthington.
The story begins in a Welsh hospital where Rhys's mother is gravely ill. While visiting her, Rhys discovers a black Labrador hiding under her bed—a dog that no one else seems to notice. When his mother passes away that night, Rhys returns home to find the same dog in his garden den. Convinced that no one will claim this "lost" dog, Rhys takes ownership of Worthington, hiding him from his father who "hates dogs."
Character Development: Authentic and Memorable
Wakeford's greatest strength lies in her authentic portrayal of a grieving child. Rhys's voice rings true throughout—sometimes angry, sometimes confused, but always genuine. His internal struggles with loss, change, and identity are depicted with remarkable sensitivity. As readers, we experience his pain when he overhears his father saying "maybe we made a mistake bringing him here," his confusion as he tries to navigate new relationships in London, and his fierce desire to protect his connection with Worthington.
The supporting characters are equally well-drawn:
- Dad (Ben) - Initially portrayed through Rhys's biased lens as uncaring and distant, he gradually emerges as a father struggling with his own grief and trying his best to connect with his son
- Lucy - Rhys's stepmother, suffering from postpartum depression that's handled with care and nuance
- Evie - The baby half-sister whom Rhys gradually learns to embrace as family
- Kayla - A neighbor with cerebral palsy whose episode on "The Dog Rescuers" makes her a bridge between Rhys's old life and new one
But it's Worthington, the mysterious Labrador, who shines brightest. His peculiar behaviors—limping on different paws, refusing to eat from plates, never barking—create an intriguing puzzle for readers that pays off beautifully in the novel's emotional climax.
Themes: Deep and Resonant
"My Dog" tackles complex themes with remarkable grace, making them accessible to young readers without oversimplification:
Grief and Healing
The novel explores how grief manifests differently in each character. Rhys avoids his mother's funeral, unable to say goodbye. His father buries himself in work. His grandmother becomes overly protective. Through Worthington, Rhys finds comfort and a way to process his feelings, showing how pets can provide emotional support during difficult times.
Family Reconfiguration
Wakeford skillfully portrays the challenges of blended families. Rhys's reluctance to accept his new family in London, his jealousy of baby Evie, and his gradual understanding that loving his new family doesn't mean betraying his mother's memory are all handled with exceptional insight.
Truth, Lies, and Consequences
As Rhys struggles to hide Worthington, he gets tangled in a web of lies that cost him friendships and trust. The novel doesn't shy away from showing the painful consequences of dishonesty, while still maintaining empathy for why Rhys feels compelled to lie.
Narrative Technique: Captivating and Clever
The narrative is tightly woven, with early details paying off later in satisfying ways. Wakeford employs a first-person perspective that allows readers to experience Rhys's emotional journey intimately. The prose is accessible but never dumbed down, with enough complexity to challenge young readers while remaining engaging.
The book's greatest narrative achievement is its subtle handling of the central question: Is Worthington real or imaginary? Wakeford drops clues throughout—Mrs. B's uncertain memory of seeing a dog, Fuzzles the cat eating food left for Worthington, the dog's peculiar behaviors—that create ambiguity without frustration. When the revelation comes, it feels earned rather than manipulative.
Shortcomings: A Few Bumps Along the Way
Despite its many strengths, "My Dog" isn't without flaws:
1. Pacing issues in the middle sections - The London school scenes occasionally drag, with some repetitive elements that could have been trimmed
2. Secondary characters needing more depth - While Kayla is well-developed, characters like Ahmad and Henry sometimes feel like they serve plot functions more than existing as fully realized individuals
3. Convenient resolutions - Some conflicts wrap up a bit too neatly, particularly Henry's quick forgiveness of Rhys's serious lie that caused him significant trouble
These issues are minor, however, in the context of what the novel achieves emotionally and thematically.
Educational Value: Learning Through Story
Beyond its emotional impact, "My Dog" offers young readers exposure to:
- Mental health representation (Lucy's postpartum depression)
- Disability representation (Kayla's cerebral palsy)
- Grief processing strategies
- The importance of honesty and taking responsibility
- The value of empathy and understanding others' perspectives
The book never feels didactic, however, with these elements naturally woven into the narrative fabric.
Final Verdict: A Remarkable Debut
"My Dog" is an impressive debut novel that handles complex emotions with sensitivity, honesty, and heart. Though not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its few weaknesses, making it a valuable addition to children's literature on grief and healing.
Strengths:
- Authentic child narrator voice
- Nuanced handling of grief and family dynamics
- Clever narrative structure with satisfying payoffs
- Well-balanced tone that acknowledges pain without wallowing
- Realistic character development across the story arc
Areas for Improvement:
- Occasional pacing issues
- Some secondary characters could be more fully developed
- A few too-convenient plot resolutions
For parents, teachers, and librarians looking for books that help children process loss, family changes, or simply appreciate a well-crafted story about the powerful bond between a child and a dog, "My Dog" is an excellent choice. Wakeford has established herself as a promising new voice in children's literature, one who doesn't shy away from difficult emotions while still providing the comfort and hope young readers need.
This book will undoubtedly find a special place in the hearts of readers who have experienced loss or significant life changes, as well as those who have found comfort in the unconditional love of a pet. Like Worthington himself, this story leaves pawprints on your heart that won't soon fade.
The story begins in a Welsh hospital where Rhys's mother is gravely ill. While visiting her, Rhys discovers a black Labrador hiding under her bed—a dog that no one else seems to notice. When his mother passes away that night, Rhys returns home to find the same dog in his garden den. Convinced that no one will claim this "lost" dog, Rhys takes ownership of Worthington, hiding him from his father who "hates dogs."
Character Development: Authentic and Memorable
Wakeford's greatest strength lies in her authentic portrayal of a grieving child. Rhys's voice rings true throughout—sometimes angry, sometimes confused, but always genuine. His internal struggles with loss, change, and identity are depicted with remarkable sensitivity. As readers, we experience his pain when he overhears his father saying "maybe we made a mistake bringing him here," his confusion as he tries to navigate new relationships in London, and his fierce desire to protect his connection with Worthington.
The supporting characters are equally well-drawn:
- Dad (Ben) - Initially portrayed through Rhys's biased lens as uncaring and distant, he gradually emerges as a father struggling with his own grief and trying his best to connect with his son
- Lucy - Rhys's stepmother, suffering from postpartum depression that's handled with care and nuance
- Evie - The baby half-sister whom Rhys gradually learns to embrace as family
- Kayla - A neighbor with cerebral palsy whose episode on "The Dog Rescuers" makes her a bridge between Rhys's old life and new one
But it's Worthington, the mysterious Labrador, who shines brightest. His peculiar behaviors—limping on different paws, refusing to eat from plates, never barking—create an intriguing puzzle for readers that pays off beautifully in the novel's emotional climax.
Themes: Deep and Resonant
"My Dog" tackles complex themes with remarkable grace, making them accessible to young readers without oversimplification:
Grief and Healing
The novel explores how grief manifests differently in each character. Rhys avoids his mother's funeral, unable to say goodbye. His father buries himself in work. His grandmother becomes overly protective. Through Worthington, Rhys finds comfort and a way to process his feelings, showing how pets can provide emotional support during difficult times.
Family Reconfiguration
Wakeford skillfully portrays the challenges of blended families. Rhys's reluctance to accept his new family in London, his jealousy of baby Evie, and his gradual understanding that loving his new family doesn't mean betraying his mother's memory are all handled with exceptional insight.
Truth, Lies, and Consequences
As Rhys struggles to hide Worthington, he gets tangled in a web of lies that cost him friendships and trust. The novel doesn't shy away from showing the painful consequences of dishonesty, while still maintaining empathy for why Rhys feels compelled to lie.
Narrative Technique: Captivating and Clever
The narrative is tightly woven, with early details paying off later in satisfying ways. Wakeford employs a first-person perspective that allows readers to experience Rhys's emotional journey intimately. The prose is accessible but never dumbed down, with enough complexity to challenge young readers while remaining engaging.
The book's greatest narrative achievement is its subtle handling of the central question: Is Worthington real or imaginary? Wakeford drops clues throughout—Mrs. B's uncertain memory of seeing a dog, Fuzzles the cat eating food left for Worthington, the dog's peculiar behaviors—that create ambiguity without frustration. When the revelation comes, it feels earned rather than manipulative.
Shortcomings: A Few Bumps Along the Way
Despite its many strengths, "My Dog" isn't without flaws:
1. Pacing issues in the middle sections - The London school scenes occasionally drag, with some repetitive elements that could have been trimmed
2. Secondary characters needing more depth - While Kayla is well-developed, characters like Ahmad and Henry sometimes feel like they serve plot functions more than existing as fully realized individuals
3. Convenient resolutions - Some conflicts wrap up a bit too neatly, particularly Henry's quick forgiveness of Rhys's serious lie that caused him significant trouble
These issues are minor, however, in the context of what the novel achieves emotionally and thematically.
Educational Value: Learning Through Story
Beyond its emotional impact, "My Dog" offers young readers exposure to:
- Mental health representation (Lucy's postpartum depression)
- Disability representation (Kayla's cerebral palsy)
- Grief processing strategies
- The importance of honesty and taking responsibility
- The value of empathy and understanding others' perspectives
The book never feels didactic, however, with these elements naturally woven into the narrative fabric.
Final Verdict: A Remarkable Debut
"My Dog" is an impressive debut novel that handles complex emotions with sensitivity, honesty, and heart. Though not perfect, its strengths far outweigh its few weaknesses, making it a valuable addition to children's literature on grief and healing.
Strengths:
- Authentic child narrator voice
- Nuanced handling of grief and family dynamics
- Clever narrative structure with satisfying payoffs
- Well-balanced tone that acknowledges pain without wallowing
- Realistic character development across the story arc
Areas for Improvement:
- Occasional pacing issues
- Some secondary characters could be more fully developed
- A few too-convenient plot resolutions
For parents, teachers, and librarians looking for books that help children process loss, family changes, or simply appreciate a well-crafted story about the powerful bond between a child and a dog, "My Dog" is an excellent choice. Wakeford has established herself as a promising new voice in children's literature, one who doesn't shy away from difficult emotions while still providing the comfort and hope young readers need.
This book will undoubtedly find a special place in the hearts of readers who have experienced loss or significant life changes, as well as those who have found comfort in the unconditional love of a pet. Like Worthington himself, this story leaves pawprints on your heart that won't soon fade.
March 30, 2025
Saw this a lot on social media before getting authorised to read on here.
I was expecting it to be emotional but it is very much so.
Rhys's Mum is in hospital, that day when he says goodbye he notices a dog, a black lab under the bed, he asks Mum if she knows but she's too tired. He thinks it's there because it's after her chocolate toffees - it is a lab after all.
Rhys is a Junior Dog Rescuer (part of a TV show) and his Mum has promised that they'll go to Dog Rescuers Live show when she gets out.
Dad is staying at the house at the moment, to look after him. But he has a new wife Lucy and a baby Evie. Rhys doesn't see him much, as he lives in London and they live in Cardiff.
But Rhys's mum doesn't get better, she dies. Dad wants Rhys to live in London. Nan and Grampy want him to stay with them in Wales, but even they are miles from his school.
When Rhys goes out to his Den in the garden the next day the dog is there. Did he follow him home? He knows that if a dog isn't claimed he can keep it. He calls the hospital to report that it is at their house. He feeds him..., gives him water... takes him for his business... but never actually sees him eat, drink or go to the toilet. He seems to like privacy.
When they have to go to London, after the funeral, he has to smuggle Worthington into Dad's car. He seems ok even if Rhys is worried. He hides him in the shed when they get there, Dad did say it could be his new den but it isn't a nice place to be. He starts his new school, hiding Worthington from everyone. He doesn't feel like he belongs, Lucy seems sad. Evie cries a lot, Dad is back at work and doesn't have time.
He is still counting the days till Worthington is his. He makes some friends at school but...then he does a really silly thing with his new phone.
This leads to more problems for Rhys, and his new friends. And things come to a head when he hears Dad and Lucy talking about him... he runs away with Worthington. But when things go wrong he yells at Worthington. The Dog runs around the corner of the road and disappears. He finally turns on his new phone and suddenly Dad is there.
Can Rhys understand what has happened to him? Where is Worthington? What are they going to do now?
My goodness this is emotional. Rhys is struggling to find his place in his new family, even though it is his Dad. He is trying to get over the loss of his Mum, being so far away from Nan and Grampy. Worthington seems to be everything he needs or is he?
I was pulled in from the beginning as I knew I would be just from the cover and title. It might be difficult for those who have experienced similar loss to Rhys.
I was expecting it to be emotional but it is very much so.
Rhys's Mum is in hospital, that day when he says goodbye he notices a dog, a black lab under the bed, he asks Mum if she knows but she's too tired. He thinks it's there because it's after her chocolate toffees - it is a lab after all.
Rhys is a Junior Dog Rescuer (part of a TV show) and his Mum has promised that they'll go to Dog Rescuers Live show when she gets out.
Dad is staying at the house at the moment, to look after him. But he has a new wife Lucy and a baby Evie. Rhys doesn't see him much, as he lives in London and they live in Cardiff.
But Rhys's mum doesn't get better, she dies. Dad wants Rhys to live in London. Nan and Grampy want him to stay with them in Wales, but even they are miles from his school.
When Rhys goes out to his Den in the garden the next day the dog is there. Did he follow him home? He knows that if a dog isn't claimed he can keep it. He calls the hospital to report that it is at their house. He feeds him..., gives him water... takes him for his business... but never actually sees him eat, drink or go to the toilet. He seems to like privacy.
When they have to go to London, after the funeral, he has to smuggle Worthington into Dad's car. He seems ok even if Rhys is worried. He hides him in the shed when they get there, Dad did say it could be his new den but it isn't a nice place to be. He starts his new school, hiding Worthington from everyone. He doesn't feel like he belongs, Lucy seems sad. Evie cries a lot, Dad is back at work and doesn't have time.
He is still counting the days till Worthington is his. He makes some friends at school but...then he does a really silly thing with his new phone.
This leads to more problems for Rhys, and his new friends. And things come to a head when he hears Dad and Lucy talking about him... he runs away with Worthington. But when things go wrong he yells at Worthington. The Dog runs around the corner of the road and disappears. He finally turns on his new phone and suddenly Dad is there.
Can Rhys understand what has happened to him? Where is Worthington? What are they going to do now?
My goodness this is emotional. Rhys is struggling to find his place in his new family, even though it is his Dad. He is trying to get over the loss of his Mum, being so far away from Nan and Grampy. Worthington seems to be everything he needs or is he?
I was pulled in from the beginning as I knew I would be just from the cover and title. It might be difficult for those who have experienced similar loss to Rhys.
September 15, 2024
“My dog” by debut author Olivia Wakeford ilustrated by David Litchfield.
Publication in paperback on the 27th February 2025.
Do you believe in coincidence?
I don’t.
I’ve got this book same day (yesterday - 14/9) as our little friend Dale passed away.
Dale was our Guinea Pig who we loved very much.
We lost our friend, our little family member, so my children are getting to know what’s grief right now.
“My Dog” it’s not an easy story, but really beautiful written - about grief, friendship and love.
Rhys’s mum is dying, so little boy needs to move to his dad and his family and start a new life in a new city.
10 years old “champ” can’t find common language with his dad and takes comfort in his dog which he kept in secret.
But thankfully, one of his new neighbours turns out beeing Rhys’s new classmate. On top of that she has an assistance dog which Rhys knows from his favourite tv series.
Is Rhys gonna make new friends? Is he going to tell his dad about his not very little secret?
Is he going to feel like in home and get used to his little sister?
How this little boy is managing this grief after his mum loss?
I really think that this story it’s not for children only.
We, adults, can learn a lot from this book. We can see child perspecitve, understand things which we, adults can’t understand sometimes.
My daughter can’t wait to read this book.
I am very curious what’s her opinion will be.
Publication in paperback on the 27th February 2025.
Do you believe in coincidence?
I don’t.
I’ve got this book same day (yesterday - 14/9) as our little friend Dale passed away.
Dale was our Guinea Pig who we loved very much.
We lost our friend, our little family member, so my children are getting to know what’s grief right now.
“My Dog” it’s not an easy story, but really beautiful written - about grief, friendship and love.
Rhys’s mum is dying, so little boy needs to move to his dad and his family and start a new life in a new city.
10 years old “champ” can’t find common language with his dad and takes comfort in his dog which he kept in secret.
But thankfully, one of his new neighbours turns out beeing Rhys’s new classmate. On top of that she has an assistance dog which Rhys knows from his favourite tv series.
Is Rhys gonna make new friends? Is he going to tell his dad about his not very little secret?
Is he going to feel like in home and get used to his little sister?
How this little boy is managing this grief after his mum loss?
I really think that this story it’s not for children only.
We, adults, can learn a lot from this book. We can see child perspecitve, understand things which we, adults can’t understand sometimes.
My daughter can’t wait to read this book.
I am very curious what’s her opinion will be.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2024
Do books make you cry?
I cry easily, however I’ve just finished reading My Dog and I sobbed my heart out for the final fifty pages or so. It is such a heart wrenchingly emotional and beautiful read.
As Rhys’ mum is dying, a perfect black Labrador with conker eyes and velvet ears appears by her hospital bed. In the weeks after her death, Rhys secretly takes care of Worthington and even smuggles him into the car when he moves from Wales to live with his Dad, stepmum and baby sister in London.
My Dog is about navigating grief and change. It is a story of family, friendship and relationships which explores themes of making mistakes and making amends. I think it will definitely appeal to dog lovers as it’s peppered with information about animal wellbeing and facts about assistance dogs. My Dog also boasts positive disability representation and incidental LGBTQ+ characters and lovely intergenerational relationships. Rhys’ Nan and Bampy were definitely my favourite characters.
I throughly enjoyed reading this remarkable story and I think the final edition which will feature cover artwork and illustrations by the super talented David Litchfield when it is published next year is sure to be a real beauty.
Thanks to Harper Collins for sending a proof my way.
I cry easily, however I’ve just finished reading My Dog and I sobbed my heart out for the final fifty pages or so. It is such a heart wrenchingly emotional and beautiful read.
As Rhys’ mum is dying, a perfect black Labrador with conker eyes and velvet ears appears by her hospital bed. In the weeks after her death, Rhys secretly takes care of Worthington and even smuggles him into the car when he moves from Wales to live with his Dad, stepmum and baby sister in London.
My Dog is about navigating grief and change. It is a story of family, friendship and relationships which explores themes of making mistakes and making amends. I think it will definitely appeal to dog lovers as it’s peppered with information about animal wellbeing and facts about assistance dogs. My Dog also boasts positive disability representation and incidental LGBTQ+ characters and lovely intergenerational relationships. Rhys’ Nan and Bampy were definitely my favourite characters.
I throughly enjoyed reading this remarkable story and I think the final edition which will feature cover artwork and illustrations by the super talented David Litchfield when it is published next year is sure to be a real beauty.
Thanks to Harper Collins for sending a proof my way.
January 20, 2025
How incredible it is to discover such an entertaining, soul-searching, and relatable story in today's noisy world. Sure to fast become a cherished classic.
The story of a young boy's struggle to accept life's unpredictable terms, when tragedy shakes his world and he is forced to move forward and far away from his treasured past. Enter Worthington, a faithful four-legged friend, whose conker eyes and velvet triangle ears we could all do with at some point or another in our lives.
Wakeford's delightful life observations and way with words playfully disarms you, allowing her adventurous characters to enter and explore the deepest corners of your heart, soul and mind.
'My Dog' would be an excellent addition to the curriculum, inviting middle-grade readers to confront the wonders and tragedies of life, all while holding the safe hands (and paws) of Rhys and Worthington.
A wondrous story, made all the more gorgeous by David Litchfield's breathtaking illustrations.
I can't wait to see what this exciting new author brings to life next.
The story of a young boy's struggle to accept life's unpredictable terms, when tragedy shakes his world and he is forced to move forward and far away from his treasured past. Enter Worthington, a faithful four-legged friend, whose conker eyes and velvet triangle ears we could all do with at some point or another in our lives.
Wakeford's delightful life observations and way with words playfully disarms you, allowing her adventurous characters to enter and explore the deepest corners of your heart, soul and mind.
'My Dog' would be an excellent addition to the curriculum, inviting middle-grade readers to confront the wonders and tragedies of life, all while holding the safe hands (and paws) of Rhys and Worthington.
A wondrous story, made all the more gorgeous by David Litchfield's breathtaking illustrations.
I can't wait to see what this exciting new author brings to life next.
April 1, 2025
This was such a beautiful book! My daughter bought it but I stole it off her and read it first.
It starts with the death of Rhys's mum, and the whole book is really about him coming to terms with that. This could be far too heavy for young readers, but the author handles it with care and sensitivity. What's really going on with Worthington, the rather strangely behaved dog who Rhys finds just after his mother's death, will probably be clear to adults quite early on - but for the target audience, the revelation builds steadily and satisfyingly. There's a particular scene near the end of the book that had me in floods of tears.
How Rhys's relationship with his dad, step-mum and new baby sister develops over the course of the book is definitely a highlight, and there's also loads of diversity among the supporting characters. Recommended for anyone who's looking for a book that deals with themes of grief, empathy and adjusting to change.
It starts with the death of Rhys's mum, and the whole book is really about him coming to terms with that. This could be far too heavy for young readers, but the author handles it with care and sensitivity. What's really going on with Worthington, the rather strangely behaved dog who Rhys finds just after his mother's death, will probably be clear to adults quite early on - but for the target audience, the revelation builds steadily and satisfyingly. There's a particular scene near the end of the book that had me in floods of tears.
How Rhys's relationship with his dad, step-mum and new baby sister develops over the course of the book is definitely a highlight, and there's also loads of diversity among the supporting characters. Recommended for anyone who's looking for a book that deals with themes of grief, empathy and adjusting to change.
September 26, 2024
This beautifully judged Middle Grade novel will tug at the heart strings and might require some tissues when you reach the terrific conclusion. Whilst struggling to recover from a death in the family and a difficult relocation from Wales to London and a new school, life takes an upturn when ten year old Rhys finds a dog. Combining bereavement, family drama, friendship and a deep love of animals, this moving story is sure to captivate those in the age 9-12 range who like there stories to be of the gentler variety. However, I'm several decades older than the intended audience and I adored it!
March 8, 2025
Although I'm not in the target age group for this story, I found it utterly gripping. Rhys Powell is a real and relatable character who will appeal to readers of all ages. I could totally empathise with his grief at the loss of the parent he was closest to, and his frustration as he tried to fit in with the remaining parent's new family. I was rooting for Rhys all the way through - I so hoped his Dad would listen to him, realise he didn't like football, stop calling him that nickname he didn't like, and most of all, let him have the dog he longed for. I won't reveal what happened, but the suspense made this book almost impossible to put down!
March 11, 2025
Simply beautiful!
This is a joy to read. It is suitable for children and adults alike - I was completely hooked! It deals with loss, grief, facing up to reality, adjusting to change and many other challenges that affect children in our difficult world. It’s beautifully written, without sentimentality, and will provide a key to open doors to discuss with young people many of the situations that face them. I can’t wait to share it and look forward to more writing by Olivia Wakeford.
This is a joy to read. It is suitable for children and adults alike - I was completely hooked! It deals with loss, grief, facing up to reality, adjusting to change and many other challenges that affect children in our difficult world. It’s beautifully written, without sentimentality, and will provide a key to open doors to discuss with young people many of the situations that face them. I can’t wait to share it and look forward to more writing by Olivia Wakeford.
April 9, 2025
absolutely gorgeous storyline - even though the story portrays grief and loss as well. you feel extremely sad for Rhys and just want to hug him and tell him everything will be ok. but he finds comfort and solace in his new doggy friend Worthington, who provides the comfort Rhys finds he needs after the death of his mum.
but is Worthington a real or imaginary friend? does it matter if Worthington helps you cope? an extraordinary friendship!
but is Worthington a real or imaginary friend? does it matter if Worthington helps you cope? an extraordinary friendship!
January 27, 2025
The first chapter of the book got me hooked already. There is something so precious and vulnerable in Rhys -- a boy who has to deal with grief and a lot of changes at a tender age. The bond between him and the dog is just beautiful and touching. And the signature warmth in David Litchfield's illustration just adds a touch of magic to the book.
January 16, 2025
I would like to thank the author, the publisher and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. It was a fabulous and moving story about grief and friendship I will be recommending it to everyone I know.
February 15, 2025
With shades of David Almond and Catherine Bruton, MY DOG is a tender, beautifully written debut about love, loss, fumbled connection and forgiveness, with an evocative sense of time and place and unforgettable characters.
June 22, 2025
so much heart to this story!
Wonderful story! Rhys is going through a traumatic time when he finds a dog under a hospital bed. He knows what to do, but things aren’t always as easy as that!
Wonderful story! Rhys is going through a traumatic time when he finds a dog under a hospital bed. He knows what to do, but things aren’t always as easy as that!
October 11, 2025
It says on the back no dogs did in this book! This is correct! But his mum dies and that’s really sad.
It keeps you guessing all the way, is Worthington a real dog or not? Does his Dad care for him or not? A very good book explaining loss to children and how to cope, but just a good story too.
It keeps you guessing all the way, is Worthington a real dog or not? Does his Dad care for him or not? A very good book explaining loss to children and how to cope, but just a good story too.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2025
A very emotional story that had me on the edge of my seat every second
March 5, 2025
Oh my goodness this book had me sobbing so much. It pulled on my heartstrings so so much.
March 7, 2025
This book is SO good with an AMAZING tale of hope and sadness, grief and friendship. Olivia Wakeford has OUTDONE herself with this book.
April 9, 2025
Breath taking
September 26, 2025
Beautiful. Read with a constant lump of emotion in my throat, and bawled at the end
November 6, 2025
A very special and moving book about friendship. Highly recommend.
May 19, 2025
So sad! But such a good read…as you can tell as I finished it in 2 days! No dogs die so that’s good, although be aware you might shed a tear so…
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