What can a dog teach kids about compassion? Omar Rezec explores the concept of love and responsibility in his picture book, Max & Charlotte Learn Compassion.
Summary
It’s a normal day for Max and Charlotte until they stumble upon a dog. The youngsters ask to keep what appears to be a stray animal when their mom decides to take the furry baby to the veterinarian to see whether or not the dog has an owner. As it turns out, Max and Charlotte’s furry friend does in fact belong to someone.
The family decides to return him to his family, which leaves a hole in Max and Charlotte’s world. Understanding how much attachment their kids have developed for the dog, Max and Charlotte’s parents ultimately decide to adopt a puppy for their kids.
What We Liked
Believable Characters
From start to finish, this story by Rezec is nothing short of adorable. Max and Charlotte are the perfect age. The kids are old enough to understand the many responsibilities that come with caring for a dog. Yet, Max and Charlotte are young enough so that they don't fully grasp the idea of their furry friend belonging to another family. Rezec ultimately creates believable characters who lead the reader to a place of empathy.
Empathy Lives In This Book
Speaking of empathy, one cannot resist feeling sorry for Max and Charlotte when they learn their new furry friend is already taken. As a reader, you want the outcome to turn out in Max and Charlotte’s favor. You are rooting for the kids to be able to keep the dog and are just as crushed as they are when the vet delivers the verdict. In the same way, you are just as happy as the main characters when mom and dad choose to adopt a pet.
Who’s It For?
Max & Charlotte Learn Compassion by Omar Rezec is recommended for children between the ages of three and eight years old. We believe kids between the ages of four and six years old would benefit from this story most.
*Note: A similar version of this review appears on the Reedsy platform. Thanks to Omar Rezec for providing a free copy for us to review!
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