The Forever Dog

My son (a 1st grader) does not like to talk about emotional issues. When our beloved dog died, he didn't say anything about it for 24 hours. The next day I read him this book and we both began crying mid-way through. The lovely story enabled my son to open up and talk about the grief he was feeling. I like the message that we keep the memory of deceased loved ones in our hearts and memories.

The Forever Dog helps children [and the child within us all] feel the painful loss of a beloved pet and move on. Cochran is a masterful wordsmith who makes us chuckle at how such a mangy puppy could become such a beloved and loyal friend to his young owner. And the mother speaks words of profound healing as she gently helps her son understand that his inner pain can be transformed by love into something that he will have forever, just as promised. This book belongs on the book shelf along with "The Fall of Freddy, the Leaf" [Leo Bussaglia] and "The Dead Bird" [Margaret Wise Brown], to give to someone who is suffering with grief after the death of a loved one. And veteranarians across the country will be wise to stock many copies of this book for their clients [of all ages] who lose their beloved pets! Caroline Boynton, LMSW, MA New York City

Corky was the best dog ever. Mike got him as a puppy and taught him all he knew. They took walks, Corky slept on Mike's head, and lots of other fun stuff! One day, Corky got sick and had to go to the veterinarian's clinic. The next morning, Mike's mom had sad news: Corky was too sick for the doctors to save. Inspired by his own experience, Bill Cochran brings children a gentle story about losing a favorite pet. For many people, this is the first time they must deal with death and grief. As children, it can be hard to understand that a beloved friend isn't going to return, and even more difficult to understand the onslaught of emotions. Cochran's approach takes young readers through the steps without letting on that it's what adults call the "grieving process." All the kids know is that they can identify with how Mike feels about losing Corky, and then see how he comes to accept it. Hand a box of tissues over with this book when gifting it to a grieving child. Tell them it's perfectly okay to cry, and even a good thing. And if they're not ready, they will be. This is a wonderfully sweet book for such an occasion. Of course, it's a nice story even if there hasn't been a loss, as it can also encourage children to learn compassion toward others who are having a hard time. I highly recommend THE FOREVER DOG to anyone who has feelings. Reviewed by Christina Wantz Fixemer 08/18/2007 (This review is dedicated to Dandy, Tinker, Chrissy, Dillon, Middie, and Alice.)

What a wonderful book, perfect for anyone suffering a loss, young or old. When Corky dies Mike is sad and angry. His mother gently reminds him of all the wonderful things he shared with Corky and that the memory of those things will live in his heart forever. Lovely illustrations also.

There are always special books we all remember from our childhoods. The Forever Dog will be one your child will never forget. It is brilliantly told, heartwarming, and honest. I challenge any adult to read it without shedding a tear of their own. Death of a pet or even loved one is something that is always so hard to discuss with a child, but this book looks at the everlasting memories and positive side to any loss. Don't make the mistake thinking this is a special book just for when a pet dies. It is a timeless classic that should be a part of every family's library.