City Dog, Country Frog

Ivy has been rereading old favorites since moving.  However, this week we were able to go to the library only to discover a new "friend"- City Dog, Country Frog. When City Dog goes to the country for the first time, he meets a new friend - Country Frog.  As the seasons pass, the two friends introduce each other to their favorite games - fetching, hopping, etc.  When City Dog visits the country in winter, he is not able to find his friend.  Will frog return in the spring?  This is a rather heartbreaking tale of friendship, loss, and the ultimate renewal of the spirit.  I was quite surprised to find Ivy fascinated by it.  She, in fact, keeps returning to the desolate winter pages when City Dog is mournfully waiting for his friend.  Although a bit depressing in nature, the beautiful water colors and uplifting ending make the story engaging.  I was surprised to find this book to be by the author Mo Williams.  He is known for his more lighthearted books such as his pigeon series.