Can I Be Your Dog?
By Troy Cummings
The Story
A homeless dog living in a box in an alley writes letter after letter to every house on Butternut Street, pleading his case for a forever home.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's been begging for a dog, this puts the longing for a home right on the page, in the dog's own words.
- Big idea: Everyone deserves someone who wants them — and finding home can take more than one try.
- Vibes: Tender, funny, and a little heartbreaking, with a warm payoff.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working on empathy for animals in need
- enjoy stories told through letters
- love dogs and everything dog-related
- respond well to a story that earns its happy ending
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: What are some of the things Arfy tells people to convince them he'd make a great pet?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think Arfy felt every time nobody answered his letters?
- Real-life connection: If you were writing a letter to convince someone of something important, what would you say?
- Imagination: If you got a letter from a dog asking to live with you, what would you write back?
- Creative writing: Arfy writes in lots of different letter styles — which one did you like best, and why?
