The heartwarming friendship between a girl and the dog next door tenderly evokes the power of stories to bring – and keep – us together.

Two houses stand side by side: one is home to a dog, the other to a young girl. Though a fence divides them, girl and dog build a sweet and sturdy friendship rooted in make-believe ... and are lonely no more. Paired with moving illustrations and based on a true story, this endearing tale from the author of I, Cosmo testifies to the transformative power of creativity and inter-species friendship.

• Carlie Sorosiak is making a name for herself as an author of funny, emotional middle-grade novels featuring animal protagonists. Here she brings her warmth and humour to a picture book for anyone who loves dogs and books, and believes in the power of stories to connect us – even across species. 
• Devon Holzwarth’s lush art is a perfect blend of realism and fantasy, capturing the friendship of the girl and dog as it carries them beyond their backyards to underwater and sky kingdoms. 
• Pet adoption rates doubled this past year with so many people at home and unable to travel. This quirky pet adoption story should appeal to the many readers getting to know new animal friends.