The Tale of Dog Giovanni

by John Gravdahl

Red makes friends with his neighbor, Julius, a retired opera star, and his dog, Giovanni, and when Julius dies, Red and Giovanni console each other.

32 pages, Hardcover

First published May 1, 2001

Reviews

[Caitlin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not what I was expecting; however, I was pleasantly surprised. I love the illustrations! When I began reading this to my son, I first thought how boring it was going to be. Wrong!

This story is told from the perspective of a young red haired boy, affectionately nicknamed Red by his elderly, Italian neighbor, Julius. Red is home sick with the polka dots and spots (chicken pox). Red hears music and moves closer to his window. Red sees and hears Julius singing opera in the garden with his pup, Dog Giovanni.

The story then shows a friendship grow between Red and Julius over an unspecified length of time.

*** SPOILER ALERT ***

Towards the very end, it is implied that Julius passes away. Dog Giovanni and Red end up reuniting.

What I find absolutely beautiful about this story is how Julius' death is phrased:

"'Dont worry, I'm just getting recycled.' he said before he left. 'Some of me will dance and sing and fly away, up around the moon, and whatever's left will come back to Earth, pushin' up daisies.' Then he laughed. 'I guess we're all gardeners that way.'"

Not only do I find this a beautiful way to describe death; but, I feel that this could be an excellent conversation starter for those who are guiding children through the loss of a loved one. The story continues and shows Red explaining how he feels Julius' presence whenever he sings one of the songs that Julius taught him.

[W.A. Ashes · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Tale of a Dog Giovanni was a children's book that addressed a big theme. When a kid asked me to read it to his class I thought we were picking up a cute little story about a dog, but it turned out to be a story about a boy who found a way to feel connected to his old neighbor through a song and a dog. This book addresses death and the power of music. As well as the power of friendship.

[Javier Trost · Rating 4 out of 5]

An awesome little book that is perfect for younger kids. I enjoyed the illustrations and it combines themes of friendship, music, pets, and gardening. I do wish it was a little bit longer but that is my only issue. I can see this being read in a kindergarten or 1st grade class and maybe it would be a nice way to introduce kids to opera.

[Cheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

There's a wonderful story in there. But the unusual illustrative style and book design detract from & hide it. I actually had to read it twice to appreciate it as much as I did (and I had the good luck to find a hardback library copy... but you could read it on openlibrary.org if you want).

[Cws]

JEPIC-Gra