Review: Mrs Dog

Mrs Dog discovers that growing old generates a feeling of uselessness. She can no longer chase sheep, so she follows Tall-One, the farmer, around all day to pass the time. While in the paddock, she comes across a tiny lamb left to die. Mrs Dog finds a new meaning to her life as she nurses and nurtures the weak lamb back to life. She names it Baa-rah and tries to teach it how to bark, to no avail.

Mrs Dog’s maternal and protective instinct kicks in. She makes Baa-rah aware of the dangers of the outside world, especially the Dangerous Place, where the Beaky-Wings gather and attack. The bond between the two animals grows stronger daily.

When the tables are turned, Baa-rah is ready to return the lifesaving favour when Mrs Dog becomes a victim of the Beaky-Wings.

But how can the lamb make the farmer understand her so she can lead him to where Mrs Dog lies injured?

Many themes are plaited through this moving story of renewal and second chances. They are the longing to be useful and needed; to love and be loved, regardless of age.

The illustrations are magnificent. They display the gentleness, compassion and the incredible bond between the animals. This produces a feeling of serenity that emanates from the page.

The stunning cover is the drawcard for this book. But the interest won’t stop there. Collectors of extraordinary picture books will surely add this to their shelves.

Title: Mrs Dog
Author: Janeen Brian
Illustrator: Marjorie Crosby-Fairall
Publisher: Five Mile Press, $19.95 RRP
Publication Date: May 2016
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781760066451
For ages: 3+
Type: Picture Book