The Dog That Nino Didn't Have

Nino doesn't have a dog, but he likes to imagine that he does. His imaginary dog chases squirrels and plays in the lake with him. His imaginary dog licks the tears off Nino's face and helps Nino feel less lonely while his dad is traveling. But when Nino gets a real dog, it's not quite what he expected. As he spends more time with his dog, though, Nino learns how to be content with what he has.  With a hopeful look at the power of imagination in the face of loneliness and disappointment, this is a beautiful depiction of the ability to find a balance between imagination and reality. 32 pages, softcover. Ages 4 – 8.