Gus

by David Sweet, Jennifer Shinkai (Illustrator)

Gus is a mysterious seven foot tall dog living on Larimer Lane. He perches in trees and nibbles leaves, dances with children, plays in the snow, and at night protects the shadowed streets. However, Mrs. Stephanopoulos hates Gus and will go to extreme lengths to rid the town of the adorable mongrel.

Along the way, we see how hate and selfish actions usually bring about dreadful results. The book is beautifully illustrated with original watercolors that bring this imaginative tale to life and includes conversation questions to discuss.

You might be surprised to hear that the children's book is about the dangers of being a bystander. When the residents of Larimer Lane do nothing, it has grave consequences for the titular character. We might assume that one person's activism is powerless but it is not. How do you use your voice to support those who are being hurt? What do we do? How do we help? What to do? Without feeling like we're being dramatic.

"Gus" brings these difficult questions to life for young readers and their parents to share.

35 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 16, 2022