The Old Woman Who Named Things
Sale price
$743
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 1996 · Est. 10 min read-aloud

The Old Woman Who Named Things

Written by Cynthia Rylant · Illustrated by Kathryn Brown

An old woman forms a bond with a stray dog despite her initial reluctance to name it.

4.4 Goodreads · 2,559 ratings
32 pages· 1,223 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud· AD590L
$7.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

An old woman, who names her belongings to stave off loneliness, encounters a shy puppy at her gate. Afraid to name it, she grapples with the fear of outliving yet another companion. Will she open her heart to the puppy, or remain in solitude? This tender tale explores the courage to embrace love and companionship, even in the twilight years. With charming illustrations, it invites readers to ponder the risks and rewards of connection.

From the publisher

How does an old woman who has outlived all her friends keep from being lonely? By naming the things in her life she knows she will never outlive–like her house, Franklin, and her bed, Roxanne. When a shy brown puppy appears at her front gate, the old woman won’t name it, because it might not outlive her. Tender watercolors capture the charm of this heartwarming story of an old woman who doesn’t know she’s lonely until she meets a plucky puppy who needs a name–and someone to love. “Rylant and Brown together create with affection and lovingly humorous touches a glimpse of old age lived with relish.” –Booklist

At a glance
Format
Paperback
Pages
32
Words
1,223
Reading age
4–7
Audience
Picture
Lexile
AD590L
The author

More from Cynthia Rylant

Explore Cynthia's bookshelf
Life
Sale price
$1899

Life

Ages 6–9 · 2017
The illustrator

More from Kathryn Brown

Explore Kathryn's bookshelf
Your next read

Books that feel like this one

See all similar books
Thinker
Sale price
$1599

Thinker

Ages 4–8 · 2019
The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
~3.8
F&P level
~O
Scholastic level
M
Publication
Published
August 1, 2000
First published
April 1, 1996
Publisher
Clarion Books
Edition
Language
English
Type
Picture Book
Identifiers
ISBN
9780152021023

Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.

Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.

Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.

Top contributors: Mamabearian · Literary Leslie