Charley’s First Night

Written by: Amy Hest

Illustrated by: Helen Oxenbury

Published by: Walker Books Ltd 2012

Ages:   3 – 7 years

Theme: pet, responsibility, home

Opening Lines: It was snowing that night and Charley wanted me to carry him home.

Synopsis: From Amazon…   Two of our most beloved picture book creators team up to tell a classic story of a child, his new puppy, and a first night home.

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. With warmth, humor, and endearing simplicity, Amy Hest tells a tale familiar to everyone who has loved a puppy, while Helen Oxenbury renders each tender gesture and charming detail in a beauty of a book that children will be eager to take home.

Why I like this: In a word – Timeless. The gorgeous soft coloured illustrations, the simple text of a boy and a dog’s first night are touching. Children will love this story. They can see themselves in this. (if they don’t already have a puppy they are gonna be asking for one.) I loved that it gently teaches responsibility and rules. Although, there may be exceptions. Who can resist the cute expressions and realistic actions of Charley Right to the end you will be saying aww…

Resources/Findings:

Here is a reading of the book….   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tg3gGJHn6jY

Puppy’s first night home tips….     https://www.puppyspot.com/content/2016/04/18/make-puppy-feel-at-home/

Good training tips with new puppies… http://www.perfectpaws.com/frstwk.html#.WRYtK8u1tjo

Teaching preschool children how to make 3D pets…   http://www.brighthubeducation.com/preschool-crafts-activities/39784-preschool-pet-crafts-make-a-3d-pet-and-a-pet-bulletin-board-for-your-preschoolers/

In my researching I came across a lovely review from my buddy Joanna, (we both love animals)…   http://joannamarple.com/2013/01/11/charleys-first-night-perfect-picture-book-friday/

I’m always pleased to be able to bring you some more special books that have come my way and be able to share them with you and join other great writers over at Susanna’s Blog, where there are literally hundreds of book reviews to view.  So pop over  and visit the lovely author, Susanna Leonard Hill’s blog and find the tab for Perfect Picture Books.    Her blog is full of resources links and activities associated with books reviewed by many authors