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.

Rhys is going through a difficult phase. His mother is poorly, his father has an angry demeanour. He has a new family, and is a bit distant to Rhys.
Rhys meets a dog while his mother is in the hospital.
The rest is a beautiful story of friendship, grief and reconnection.
The illustrations are 5/5 stars.

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.

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.

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