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This story confronts the death of a pet. The main character, Danny, loses his beloved dog, Nicky. The author gently writes exactly what needs to be said, helping parents guide their children through it, and helping rally any child facing that situation. In Danny's case, his dog dies right before the summer break, so he has plenty of time to feel the hole in his normal summer vacation. But then his friend asks him to dog sit his puppy. Danny stumbles, not wanting to replace one dog with another so fast. When he realizes that he needs to step up and help his friend by agreeing to keep the dog, he still struggles to rebound enough to give the puppy the attention he needs and deserves. In this story, Danny's parents guide and encourage him, rather than mandate his responses and decide for Danny when he is ready to recover from his grief.
Although the subject is depressing, it is true that adults sometimes find themselves fighting to maintain their child's rainbows amidst thunderclouds. This book helps parents wade the waters of childhood disappointment. No one can protect their children from loss, but their loved ones can learn to help them with resilience. The book is best for parents and children to read together because It touches on religious beliefs and Heaven. Danny's mother says, "I believe Nicky's happy too. God wants us all to be happy." The illustrations are precious. Sad Danny, lying on his bed with his red cheeks, is both adorable and sympathy-provoking. In fact, all of the facial expressions make these illustrations special and exemplary. While probably children from kindergarten through fifth grade and their parents who are going through the loss of a pet will appreciate this book the most, it is truly touching for anyone.