Oliver and Patch

Oliver has moved to the big city, but he misses his countryside home and the friends he has left behind. The city seems grey and full of people who are wrapped up in their own busy lives. Oliver is feeling pretty low when he spies a stray lead that has Patch on the end of it. Patch is so affectionate and they have a wonderful day together. Being with Patch makes everything around him seem better, but he knows that somewhere out there, Patch has an owner who must be missing him.

Claire Freedman’s story of a lonely boy finding a friend is sensitive and moving but is wrapped up neatly with an uplifting ending. Kate Hindley’s gorgeous illustration perfectly captures the idea of the city shadowing Oliver’s emotions and happy little Patch is an adorable character. Children will enjoy this moving addition to their picture book library that leaves jokes aside to say something a little more thoughtful.