Let's get a pup by Bob Graham

When you compile a list of books to read to young children about puppies and dogs this one - Let's get a pup! should be the title that appears at the top,

This book has such an amazing emotion arc.  The story opens with the sad news the family cat has grown old and died. Kate is especially sad but one sunny morning she wakes up and realises what the family needs is a pup!

"What, a brand-new one?"
said a now wide awake Mum.
"With the wrapping still on?"
added her breathless dad.

I hope this first page has given you a smile.  But wait there are many more special moments and words!

Over breakfast Mum takes at look at the newspaper and sees an advertisement

THE RESCUE CENTRE

The centre for dogs without a home

The centre for dogs all alone

The family jump in their car and head off but when they arrive the choice of dogs is almost overwhelming.  "Then they saw Dave ... "

Dave is a little black and white pup and he is adorable.  He comes out sideways and then he "turned a complete circle in the air."

"He was small.
He was cute.
He was brand-new
Dave climbed right over the top of Kate, who briefly wore him like a hat."

The choice is made but as they turn to leave they see Rosie!  Rosie is a old dog with sad eyes. "She stood it seemed, almost politely ... Her eyes watered, her ears went back and she radiated Good Intention."

The family walk away feeling so very sad. That night, while Dave settles in, everyone keeps thinking about Rosie. So once again with breakfast uneaten they all head back to the Rescue Centre. Rosie is waiting for them and the family is now complete and happy.

Take at look at this review by Megan Daley. In 2002 Let's get a Pup! was the Picture Book winner of the Boston Globe Horn Book award. I have only just discovered this and I am smiling all over again.