Our reviews and ratings are 100% unbiased. Screenwise is a Bookshop.org affiliate and an Amazon Associate, so if you buy a book through one of our links, we may earn a commission. Bookshop.org purchases also support independent bookstores.
Screenwise Verdict
Here's the truth: you probably won't read this book until you need it. And when you need it—when your dog is sick, or has just died, or your kid is sobbing in their bedroom—you'll be grateful it exists.
Bill Cochran's story doesn't sugarcoat or talk down. Mike and Corky have a Forever Plan, and then one day Corky isn't there, and Mike has to figure out what forever means now. It's simple, it's honest, and it gives kids permission to be sad while also celebrating the joy that came before.
The 4.8 Amazon rating tells you what you need to know: this book does its job. It won't win awards for innovation or artistry, and your kid won't ask for it at bedtime every night. But when grief hits your household, it's a compassionate tool that meets kids right where they are.
Keep it on the shelf. You'll know when you need it.
Age Fit
Best for ages 4-8, exactly as the publisher suggests. This is the sweet spot when kids can understand death conceptually but need help processing the emotions. Older kids probably won't need it unless they're particularly sensitive or facing their first pet loss.
WISE Breakdown
Wholesome
88
A gentle, emotionally honest story about the bond between a boy and his dog, and the inevitable loss that comes with pet ownership. Models healthy grief processing and celebrates the joy of friendship without being maudlin or manipulative. The 'Forever Plan' concept is sweet without being saccharine.
Imaginative
62
Straightforward narrative structure with simple illustrations. The story serves a clear purpose—helping kids understand pet loss—but doesn't invite much creative exploration or wonder. It's more therapeutic tool than imaginative journey, which is fine for what it is, but limits its score here.
Safe
92
This is exactly the kind of book parents seek out when they need to address pet death. The subject matter is handled gently and age-appropriately for the 4-8 reading age. No surprise trauma—the entire point is to prepare kids for or process loss. The only 'unsafe' element is the emotional weight, which is intentional and supportive.
Enriching
81
Serves as a genuine guide for kids navigating grief and loss—a developmental milestone most will face. Teaches that sadness is natural, memories matter, and love persists even when someone is gone. The 4.8 Amazon rating suggests it resonates with families who've used it. Not entertainment-focused, but meaningful for its purpose.
Parent Info
✓
Why It Might Be Great
Handles pet death with honesty and gentleness, validating kids' big feelings without overwhelming them
The 'Forever Plan' concept gives kids language for the permanence they believed in and the loss they're experiencing
High Amazon rating (4.8/5) from parents who've actually used it during tough times
Celebrates the joy of the relationship before addressing the grief—remembers that love came first
Age-appropriate for preschool through early elementary, right when many kids face their first loss
⚠
What to Watch For
This is not a casual read—it's emotionally heavy and specifically about death. Save it for when you need it or when preparing for an aging pet
Some kids may find it sad even without personal experience; gauge your child's sensitivity to emotional content
Published in 2007, so illustrations may feel a bit dated compared to contemporary picture books
Conversation Starters
"What do you think Mike's favorite memory of Corky was? What's your favorite memory of [pet's name]?"
"Mike and Corky had a Forever Plan. What would your Forever Plan with [pet] be?"
"It's okay to feel sad when we miss someone. What helps you feel better when you're sad?"
"Even though Corky isn't there anymore, do you think Mike still loves him? How can we remember someone we love?"
