We’ve been reading a ton of children’s literature around here. Since Violet came home, books have been part of her daily life. I love finding animal-themed books that teach about compassion and kindness, and by now, I think we’ve checked out nearly every dog-related book at our public library–some wonderful titles, some not-so-wonderful.
So, when Worthy Kids/Ideals offered to send me a free copy of a new children’s book about a dog adoption (plus, they offered another copy for a giveaway!), I jumped at the chance. I’m always looking for good storylines about positive pet adoption, and the puppy on the cover totally looks like what I imagine puppy Emmett looked like!
OhMyDogBlog.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
First, a quick summary: The book opens on a homeless puppy who’s scooped up by a caring woman who gets the pet put up for adoption at a local pet store. Adorable Scarlett and her mother fall in love with Maverick, and Scarlett finds that she wants to advocate for him and dogs like him by encouraging her friends to adopt pets.
Very, very sweet. And, ultimately, a super positive message about pet adoption.
Here’s the quibble I’m sure many parents will have: Maverick’s adoption happens spontaneously when Scarlett and her mother visit a pet store with another purpose. I know this is a hot topic in the animal welfare community–unprepared adopters and unplanned adoptions increase the return rate. The reality, of course, is that it happens, so it’s at least worthy of addressing and sparking the conversation with your kiddo about planning ahead to add a new family member.
That said, this book would be a great addition to a family bookshelf. The illustrations are lovely–soft with just the right amount of detail. The story is simple and straightforward. Books like this, I think, are designed to create a conversation between parent and child about some pretty big topics, like pet homelessness, animal adoption, and caring for a pet. That’s what a good book should do, in my opinion: Start a conversation.
Finally, this tale is based off the real-life adoption of Katherine Schwarzenegger’s pup, Maverick. You can find that cutie on Instagram!
Check out the book for more details or pick up your own copy of Maverick and Me.
Now, thanks to the generosity of WorthyKids/Ideals, one of you has the opportunity to win your own copy of Maverick and Me! This is a Rafflecopter giveaway, so sometimes the widget takes a few seconds to load. Or, if you’re reading this via email or through a feed, you might have to click the link:
Looks like Cooper and Violet both like the book!
Winnie the Pooh is still my favorite. It also encourages compassion for people and other animals. I’d love to win this book for my grandboy! P.S. You’re Violet is beautiful!
yes it’s my favorite too, now I will introduce to my 6 month old baby girl, while we sit and cuddle with our puppy.
Cute book idea. One of my favorite children’s books was Go Dogs Go!
My children’s book collection started about 5 years ago and is extensive, minus the children. LOL, I wish we lived closer so I could share some with Violet! That is the absolute cutest photo of all of you reading!
Hershey was a trip to the store for cat food, almost eight years ago. Spontaneous adoptions aren’t the worst thing in the world, and that one was one of the best!
My mother like 101 dog tricks… This will be amazing idea of sharing books about pets
I love the theme of this book! I may just have to get a copy for my grandsons.
I love the photo of you, Violet, and Cooper! I love the way Violet is looking up at you – it’s soooo darn cute!! And I love Cooper’s collar, too!
This sounds so cute! And November is Picture Book Month! Yay!
I’m a librarian, so can I share a couple of my favs with you?! My absolute favourite kids’ book is Not Quite Narwhal by Jessie Sima. I also love I Need a Hug by Aaron Blabey. Both animal themed books about being different and kind to one another (and the Narwhal one is sooo beautifully illustrated).
🙂 sorry … Will slowly back away from the children’s literature talk now. Ha! Jane
Oh! And Toby by Hazel Mitchell which came out last year is great too, about a dog that gets adopted from a shelter (also based on a true story) and it also discusses the reality of adopting a dog (adjustment periods, acceptance, etc) … But in a children’s lit format with great illustrations. Bought a copy for my nephew and its a great book.
Jane
I love the photo of the three of you reading! The look on Violet’s face is precious.
I saw an interview with Katherine and the book sounds wonderful. Interesting about the impulse adoption thing. You are right, it happens and sometimes works out – though not always, sadly.
Maverick and me is a great book. Thank you for sharing this with all of us.