
By Cynthia Rylant, Kathryn Brown (Illustrator)
An old woman forms a bond with a stray dog despite her initial reluctance to name it.
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.
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
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