This is a beautiful book. It deals with a difficult subject in an approachable way. The facts are presented very matter-of-factly (and accurately: as someone who lost a Great Dane when I was a child, I was pleasantly surprised to see Bella’s decline depicted with such detail) but there is underlying kindness.

The dialogue felt a little clunky and unnatural but, overall, didn’t distract from the story too much. I also didn’t love that Charlotte’s family got another dog so soon after Bella’s death, since I fear it may set unfair expectations.

Overall, this book received high marks in our household. We will refer to this book to comfort ourselves and our child when our cats inevitably pass. ( )

This was such a moving book. I wish I'd had something like this to help me as a child; I still sometimes grieve the loss of my two childhood cats. What a wonderful way to break down such a difficult event in a child's life to help them move forward without blame. ( )

Charlotte was lucky. She was able to spend time with her dog, Bella, for a while before her pet died. The book chronicles Charlottes experience with a dying pet. From Bella being too old to play fetch, to having accidents in the house, to not eating or drinking. Bella snuggled in bed near Charlotte with her favorite blanket. After Bella passed away, the family had a funeral for her inviting family and friends, to share special memories. In Bella's honor they did something special for the local animal shelter which led to a new pet! This book can be personalized to a pet owner as it has space for writing about your own pet loss and posting a photograph.

This was given to my niece but I read it to make sure it was appropriate.

I would definitely reccomend Goodbye, Bella to any parent wanting to teach their children about loosing a beloved family pet. The illustrations are captivating and will sure catch the attention of a child. The interactive elements will help guide them through the grief of loosing a pet but it will also teach them to celebrate the joy that pet has given you ( )

This beautifully illustrated book touches on a sensitive and important topic: our canine family members' deaths. This book is suggested for 4 to 7 year olds, however, for independent reading I think it's more appropriate for 8 or above. Younger children would definitely benefit from having the book read to them or following the story via pictures. I liked how the authors included ways for the reader to write and illustrate the loss of their own dog. Most dogs do not die peacefully while sleeping at home. I think it would have been helpful to explain about taking a dog to the vet to be euthanized since that is more common. It would also have been helpful to show more of the grieving process and discussion before getting a new dog. Overall, I would recommend this book for families dealing with the loss of their beloved dog. However, I would also include reading books that talk more about veterinarian assisted euthanasia and the grieving process.