Grayface & Wigglebutt

Title: Grayface & Wigglebutt

Author: Donna Chisum

Illustrator: Shane Crampton

Publisher: Warren Publishing

Genre: Children's Fiction

Source: Author Provided

My Review:

Grayface & Wigglebutt is a cute children's story written by Donna Chisum. The illustrations by Shane Crampton bring the story to life.

Two mischievous dogs have many adventures together until one day, Grayface is not able to keep up. It isn't long before he is no longer around. Wigglebutt mourns the death of his best friend. He feels like he can no longer enjoy life, or he might forget his old friend Grayface. 

Grayface & Wigglebutt is a story about friendship, loss, grief, and moving on but not forgetting. It would be perfect for children ages 4-8, although you might need to explain a few words (like reminiscing) to younger children. While the story deals with the death of a dog, it would also be appropriate for seasons of change, like moving, as the same basic principles apply. I think children will delight in the antics of Grayface & Wigglebutt (I imagine giggling when they hear and repeat the name Wigglebutt). While the content is heavy, the story is not. The author has given the story a nice balance.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.  

★★★★/5

Synopsis (Goodreads): 

Young Wigglebutt loves his DBF (doggie best friend!) Grayface. From running and exploring, to herding cows and chasing chickens around the farm, the two are inseparable. Eventually the time comes for old Grayface to cross the rainbow bridge to heaven, and poor Wigglebutt is beside himself. What will he do without his DBF? So, when a new little friend joins the farm, Wigglebutt isn't sure how to react at first. Over time, however, he learns about the true meaning of friendship and what it means to love somebody after they're gone. This sweet and touching tale provides a gentle lesson for children about love, loss, and everlasting friendship.