Just Like Heaven

I'm sure I sound like a broken record, but Patrick McDonnell is the next Charles Schulz. Mooch and Earl and the rest of the gang never fail to give an endearing, cheerful, often funny view of the tender issues that face our furry friends as well as the world at large. I have converted many, many folks into Mutts fans - and I give this particular book "Just Like Heaven" to every child I know. Birthdays, Easter, Christmas, and for no occasion at all other than I love them, and I love Mutts.

As a children's librarian, I am always on the lookout for new books that will get kids involved. This one is such a book! As I read it to a rowdy bunch of 1st graders, you could almost feel the "quiet" enter the room as they looked and listened to what heaven may really be like. By the time we got to "hug time" they were so enthralled that with just a little bit of direction, we had a huge group hug and laugh together. As I read it later to 4th graders, they were more interested in talking about their own ideas of heaven and perfect days, but they agreed that sometimes it is nice to just take a nap and wake up wanting to hug someone. This would be a wonderful book to just have around to remind yourself that heaven is not made up of possessions, but of people (and animals).

Short, sweet, and to the point. I read it to my two daughters and the story makes you stop, thank God for what you have and take in the moment.

Patrick McDonnell has done it again! Just Like Heaven reaches into your soul and tugs at your heartstrings with a message as soft as kitten toes and puppy kisses. Most people these days are in a fog by being too plugged in to marvel at the beauty and goodness that surrounds them. This sweet, simple masterpiece will help teach our children and feed our inner children. Giving the gift of Mutts has become a family tradition that I will continue for years to come.

This is a simple, beautiful, and touching story. 'Just like heaven' is all about appreciating what is here and now. I read it yesterday for the first time and it lifted my spirits after a long day at work. I'm giving it to my friends and family for Christmas. It can be read on many different levels. Children will love it - but adults will love it even more. Enjoy!