City Dog, Country Frog

 Picture book by Mo Willems

This is a huge departure from Mo’s other books that have a light, silly, humorous tone. This one is quiet and thoughtful, a little bit sad, and simply lovely. Near the end, frog doesn’t return to his rock, and the reader is left wondering what happened. Did he die? Migrate or move away? Is he hibernating? Regardless of the cause, dog feels the loss of his friend, but also honors his friend by similarly welcoming a new friend. It is a hopeful ending, showing that life and joy can still be found after a loss.

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