Charley's First Night review

On Charley’s first night, Henry carries his new puppy in his old baby blanket all the way to his house. He shows Charley every room, saying, "This is home, Charley." He says that a lot so that Charley will know that he is home. Henry’s parents are very clear about who will be walking and feeding Charley (Henry will, and he can’t wait). They are also very clear about where Charley will be sleeping: Charley will be sleeping in the kitchen. But when the crying starts in the middle of the night, Henry knows right away that it’s Charley! And it looks like his parents’ idea about where Charley is going to sleep may have to change.(goodreads summary)

A new puppy can be an exciting time for your household and it is a big responsibility. But in this story, Henry is determined to take care of little Charley and help him feel right at home.  His parents tell him that he will be the one that needs to feed him and walk him and just before bed, they also say that Charley must sleep in the kitchen.  But as the puppy's first night arrives, Henry does his best to make it as comfortable as possible for a good night's rest. This sweet story definitely melted my heart today...  It is written and illustrated with such compassion and tenderness that I really visualized along with the story. Maybe because it is so familiar to a real life scenario that it tugs at the heartstrings.  I liked Henry's perseverance on how he comforts Charley, treating him so gently with words and his actions.  I think it can also teach kindness and thoughtful attention, not only to animals but to others as well. The pages are soft and subtle making this a good quiet time read. The combination of the author and illustrator together made for a nice heartwarming story. I think this is a "just right book" for ages 2-7.~

Title: Charley's First Night
Author: Amy Hest, illustrated by Helen Oxenbury
Pub. Date: October 2012, Candlewick Press
Genre: picture book
Hardcover,  32 pgs.