Daniel, the Golden Retriever

Description

Daniel is a very good boy. He is happy to be back at the dog show. Why wouldn't he?! He gets bathed and brushed and all the pets and pats from the humans who come to meet him (that's his favorite part). Getting the big red, white, and blue ribbon is important and his sights are set on it. But when Daniel finds himself in an unexpected position, he has to find perspective on what winning truly means to him. Maybe the thing that makes him happiest is sitting in a hole he dug in the backyard, drenched in sunshine. Kiersten Eagan's illustrations bring warmth and heart to this uplifting story. Backmatter covers the traits and jobs of a Golden Retriever, and will also feature a photo of the real Daniel.

Tammy Tomlinson is the owner Daniel as well as the owner of Hillock Goldens, a small home-based kennel in Western Pennsylvania. They have been active in golden retrievers since 1971. Kiersten Eagan is an illustrator and visual develpment artist with a passion for storytelling. She is from Canada but currently living in England where she loves exploring. She has designed for feature film projects such as My Little Pony, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, and The Addams Family.

Many children will connect to Daniel's desire to please his grown-up, and seeing her heap praise upon him despite his loss is a vital reminder to all readers that their value is not dependent upon their accolades. This story of grace in defeat is recommended for general purchase, and most especially for anyone who loves dogs.-School Library Journal