In Kate, the Ghost Dog: Coping With the Death of a Pet, Wayne L. Wilson delicately weaves the threads of family support into a fabric of love and understanding to help a girl cope with the loss of her beloved pet.
What is strikingly apparent is the way the book deals with the maturing feelings of a girl becoming a young adult. All children feel isolated at times, and when disappointment occurs, the need to reach out to other family members is weighed against the desire to be left alone to deal with personal loss. It is the breaking down of the personal barrier and the opening of the young woman’s feelings with the loving support of a functional family that is most enjoyed and best achieved in Wilson’s writing. The book, by design, shows others how to open up to the loving support of their family, and is a model for all kinds of loss, whether it be a pet or even a family member.
Beautifully illustrated by Soud, the book is embellished with just the right amount of imagery. Not too much to make it an overwhelming picture book, and it’s done in a style that incorporates little details and highlights the typographical flair. The book is a pleasure for the eyes and an easy and quick read. It certainly made me think of the loss I had with a pet a while ago, and it sends an uplifting message.
I recommend it for all family libraries and elementary schools. This book can be a gift to those who have recently suffered the loss of a pet or those who currently love a pet, allowing them to cherish the days they spend together. It shows that the love of a pet stays with a person forever.
Title: Kate the Ghost Dog: Dealing with the Death of a Pet
Author: Wayne L. Wilson
