Clifford the Big Red Dog
By Norman Bridwell
The Story
A girl named Emily Elizabeth introduces her enormous red dog, Clifford, sharing the everyday activities they enjoy together and the ways they look after one another.
Why It's Special
For the kid who's convinced their pet is the biggest, best, most important one in the world, Clifford makes that feeling official — in giant red form.
- Big idea: Love and loyalty come in all sizes, and taking care of each other is what makes a family, even a family of one girl and one impossibly big dog.
- Vibes: Warm, simple, and cozy, with a gentle sense of humor about just how big Clifford really is.
Perfect For Kids Who
- enjoy stories about pets and the kids who love them
- are working on understanding care and responsibility
- like to talk about their own daily routines
- respond well to gentle, reassuring read-alouds
Ask Your Little Reader
- Story details: What are some of the things Emily Elizabeth and Clifford like to do together?
- Real-life connection: How do you take care of your pet, or how does your family take care of you?
- Imagination: If your dog were as big as Clifford, what would you want to do together?
- Feelings & empathy: Why do you think Emily Elizabeth and Clifford take such good care of each other?
