Better With Two

by Barbara M. Joosse, Catherine Stock (Illustrator)

Laura tries to make Mrs. Brady feel better when her dog Max dies.

Genres: Picture Books

30 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 1988

About the author

[Author also goes by the name Barbara Joosse.]

Barbara M. Joosse has written many books for children. Among them are Mama, Do You Love Me?, illustrated by Barbara Lavallee; and I Love You the Purplest, illustrated by Mary Whyte. She says, "When I was a little girl, I wished for two things — a best friend, and something so ferocious it would scare away the monsters under my bed. And so I have written Lovabye Dragon. I think maybe it’s for little me." Barbara Josse lives in Wisconsin.

Reviews

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gently teaching about grief, and how friends can help -- that's the beauty of this picture book, told with the sensitivity readers have come to expect from Barbara M. Joosse.

Little Laura, the main character here, develops a friendship with a grandmotherly neighbor named Mrs. Brady. Usually the older woman's life seems to revolve around her relationship with her dog Max.

After Max dies, Laura cries. Then, bravely, she walks to Mrs. Brady's home. Her beautiful gift made me tear up. Goodreaders, I think you will like it too.

The gorgeous illustrations are watercolors by Catherine Stock. Just right for this book.

[Taylor Horner · Rating 3 out of 5]

genre
grade level: k-2
it’s a cute book but could maybe be a little sad for younger kids since the dog dies, but it teaches the importance of comforting and being there for others.

[Cws]

JE-Jos

[Vanessa Mattingly · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although sad, this story is a good way to discuss death and how to help others feel better. Laura is empathetic and discovers how having a friend is better than being alone.