Dear Brave Friend

Ugh, this book 😭😭😭I purchased to read to my daughters (ages 5 and 7) after we had to put our 3 yr old goldendoodle to sleep. Even though I read it a few times to myself to prepare (and cried like a baby) before I read it to my daughters, I still cried when I read it to them.This book is geared toward helping children understand the emotions they may experience after they lose a pet. Very appropriate

Dear Brave Friend is truly a book for all ages. The loss of a beloved pet brings about so many emotions, and this book serves to validate them. Loss can cause us to shut down no matter our age. Leigh Ann acknowledges this in her book, and lovingly reminds us that it’s okay to seek help when the feelings from loss come crashing in. I love that this book was written from the dog to the child to quell any fears of where their furry friend has gone. The journaling piece at the end of the book is brilliant. Learning to write down our memories and feelings in an organized fashion is such a key component of the healing process. The illustrations are beautifully done and really bring this book to life. I highly recommend getting this book to help you or your child through the grief of pet loss. I know I will be sending this book to anyone who suffers the loss of a beloved pet no matter how young or old they are. It is truly heartfelt and one that should be read by all who have lost a furry friend.

This beautifully illustrated book talks about all the experiences of loving and grieving the death of a pet. It's a book meant for children mourning the loss of a pet but anyone can benefit from the sage advice on love and loss offered by the narrator of the book, a beloved dog who has passed on. The book acknowledges all the stages of grief and encourages the reader to feel them while also remembering the best experiences about life with a close friend. The book is a wonderful reminder that the love shared between humans and animals is forever. A useful workbook is included at the back of the book in which a child or adult can personalize their feelings, memories and thoughts about their particular loss. This exceptional book is a great guide for anyone who is experiencing and trying to process the loss of a cherished pet.

I purchased this book for my daughter shortly after our 17 year old pit bull died. Though we all know that he lived a long long life and his journey was a special one, it was such a devastating even for my soon to be 10 year old. He was my daughter's fur brother and life companion who was always by her side since her birth. The story is very calming and reassuring in a way that doesn't encourage reader to believe any particular philosophy about life and death. The book has several pages for drawing and places for putting some thoughts and messages. I feel that this book is perfect for older children.

Finally, a helpful book where the story does not simply end, but gives the opportunity to reflect and heal with personal memories of lost furry family member. I personally loved the approach to healing after the loss of a beloved pet. This books is wonderful not only for children but for adult as well. The illustrations are poignant and heartfelt. Everyone who has lost a beloved pet can relate and enjoy this book as a coffee table memorial.