The River by Tom Percival

In this book the river itself is a metaphor for the turbulent emotions that a young boy experiences when his precious old dog Atlas dies. BUT none of this is stated explicitly in the text.  

When we meet Rowan he is content. Look at this sentence and think about the words encircled and hug - how do they make you feel?

"Rowan sat beneath his favourite tree, looking out at the hills which encircled his home like a hug. Rowan loved everything about this place, but most of all, he loved ... the river."

The river can be quiet and playful, wild and angry. In winter though, his frozen river makes him feel "as cold and alone as the moon." (you can see this page here)

Spring arrives but the river stays frozen and Rowan continues to feel a deep deep sadness. Summer arrives with flowers in the fields and bird song but the river remains frozen. 

"Then just as autumn was approaching and the leaves were beginning to curl, something remarkable happened."

Rowan finds an injured bird and now he can pour his love onto another living creature. As the bird is healed and Rowan watches it fly high in the sky, the river finally breaks free and the ice melts.

The author’s love of the countryside shines through in the stunning natural panoramas in a palette of colours similar to a Constable landscape. Little Parachutes

The river is a character in its own right and provides a metaphor for Rowan’s emotions. It isn’t the same each day – sometimes it’s calm. Or playful. Or angry. But as Rowan comes to terms with his loss he realises that, just like the river, his own emotions are ever changing. Story Snug

Subtle, beautiful and thought provoking. LoveReading4Kids

I highly recommend this book for your Primary school library.  It is such a gentle and affirming book on the topic of the death of a loved pet.  I don't think I have read another book which so gently tackles this complex topic.  Take a look some other posts about grief and emotions by reading about these books:

Toby

A Last Goodbye

The Rabbit Listened

Here are some other books by Tom Percival. He is such a wonderful illustrator and storyteller:

The Invisible

The Sea Saw

Herman's Holiday

Herman's Letter