By Ben Davis, illustrated by Julia Christians
Before the book even gets started, it say, “A really funny story (but with a few sad bits too, so get your tissues ready!) They weren’t joking – I made it to page 3 before needing them…
George knows that Gizmo is getting old – after all, he’s been around since before George was born and what’s that in dog years? – so he writes Gizmo a bucket list. As the pair work their way down the list they have lots of adventures and lots of laughs.
A brilliantly funny, poignant, heartbreaking book about life, best friends, growing up and moving on.
There is something truly beautiful and painfully relatable as we watch George come to terms with the fact that his best friend and confidant since the incident, isn’t going to be around forever. His determination to make every moment count and ensure Gizmo lives the life he has left to the full are life lessons for us all.
George’s relationships at school are a struggle, and it is difficult to accept the way he is treated. I was really pleased to see people step up, with a gentle reminder that asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness.
Ben has a way of taking serious subjects, adding his sharp humour and weaving them together to create stories that entertain, connect you with the characters and give you lots to think about. Tackling serious issues; death, family break-up, anxiety, bullying, poverty, and child careers, What’s That In Dog Years is a great read for empathy, and anyone in need of a jolly good cry (but you’ll laugh a lot too!)
Julia Christians’ warm, humorous illustrations pepper the pages, helping to bring the characters and settings to life.
Great for fans of The Dog Who Saved The World by Ross Welford, Charlie And Me by Mark Lowery, Just Jack by Kate Scott and D-Day Dog by Tom Palmer.