My Friend Andy

This debut author/illustrator has produced a picture book that makes the concept of homelessness accessible to young children. The narrative is told by Lilli’s pet dog, Fluffy, who wants to befriend a dog that they see most days as they walk to the park. It is not until Fluffy gets lost in the city that Andy enters the tale with his big, grey dog, his guitar and blanket. Overnight, out in the city, with great care, Andy looks after the lost and frightened Fluffy, assuring her that in the morning they will hunt for her owners. Searches prove in vain, until a MISSING poster on a lamp post is spotted. There is an address given, so Fluffy is happily reunited with her family. The bold watercolours are vibrant throughout, matching each part of the story. The double spread where Lillys’ Mum is taking a coffee to Andy is amazing; a whole crowd of people walking past the coffee shop are all watching the meeting of the two dogs and smiling at the friendship obvious between Lill’s Mum and Andy. A great book for further discussion, should be in all school libraries.