Charlie The Cavalier Begs for Attention
By Lisa M. Rusczyk
The Story
A little girl can't join her mom on a trip, so she sends her toy dog Charlie the Cavalier in her suitcase instead, trusting him to keep her mom safe and close.
Why It's Special
For the kid who dreads goodbyes at the door, this book hands them a stand-in protector who gets to go on the trip they can't.
- Big idea: Love finds a way to travel with the people we miss, even when we have to stay behind.
- Vibes: Reassuring, tender, and rhythmic — a soft landing for a hard goodbye.
Perfect For Kids Who
- are working through a parent traveling for work or family reasons
- love rhyming read-alouds with a steady beat
- respond well to comfort objects and stand-in companions
- enjoy stories that turn video chats into playtime
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story & problem-solving: Why did the little girl decide to send Charlie the Cavalier in her mom's suitcase instead of going herself?
- Feelings & empathy: How do you think the little girl felt when she said goodbye to her mom at the airport?
- Real-life connection: Do you have a toy or blanket that makes you feel better when someone you love is away?
- Imagination: If you could send a toy to protect someone you love on a trip, what would you pick and why?
