Emily Rand is an illustrator and educator based in London. This is her first book for children, and it is a gem. She takes the experiences of a friendly terrier and makes us feel that we are in her paws as she walks the streets of a city with her animal companion. The dog yearns to go to the park but the man guiding her through the crowds of people has other ideas. He loves to stop and chat with friends or strangers. There are so many shops and that means more waiting.
During these periods, the dog feels ignored: "Looking down at me below, no one wants to say hello." Finally, the restless and bored dog gets to the park where she romps with her friends.
The importance of having more empathy for our pets is one of the lessons of A Dog Day. It also points out that animals, like human beings, can be animated by yearning. This children's picture book is designed for children ages 2 through 4.
