Dogger

by Shirley Hughes
Dogger cover
Good Books rating 4.5
Children's Fiction
Buy online
Waterstones
Paperback • £7.99
Amazon
Format/Price Check
Technical
  • ID: 767
  • Added: 2025-09-20
  • Updated: 2025-10-13
  • ISBN: 9780099927907
  • Publisher: Random House
  • Published: 1993-01-01
  • Formats: 13
  • Reviews: 4

Dogger is a beloved children's book that captures the essence of childhood innocence and the deep emotional connection between a child and their favorite toy. The story follows Dave, a young boy who accidentally leaves his cherished stuffed dog, Dogger, behind at the school fair. The narrative beautifully illustrates Dave's distress and the eventual happy reunion, making it a touching and relatable story for young readers. /n/n Written and illustrated by Shirley Hughes, Dogger is renowned for its charming and detailed artwork, which brings the story to life and immerses readers in the world of Dave and his family. The book's emotional depth and timeless themes have made it a classic in children's literature, earning it the prestigious Kate Greenaway Medal in 1977.

Reviews
Amazon · 2023-01-01
heartwarming 4.50

This picture book is a heartwarming tale with superb illustrations that capture every detail beautifully. The story is both touching and relatable, making it a classic that will be loved by many.

Amazon's review of 'Dogger' praises it as one of Shirley Hughes' most heartwarming picture books. The reviewer highlights the author's keen eye for detail and the superb quality of her illustrations, which bring the story to life. The tale is described as both touching and relatable, making it a classic that will be cherished by families for generations. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to evoke a sense of warmth and comfort, making it a beloved addition to any child's library.

Quick quotes

    This is Hughes' most heartwarming picture book.

    Hughes has a kindly, inexhaustible eye - she misses nothing.

    Her drawing is invariably superb.

Father Reading Every Day · 2019-04-20
heartwarming 4.50

The story is simple yet profound, pulling at heartstrings with its relatable emotions. The illustrations are evocative and beautifully executed, adding depth to the narrative.

The reviewer from Father Reading Every Day finds 'Dogger' to be a simple yet profound story that pulls at the heartstrings. The illustrations are described as evocative and beautifully executed, adding depth to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to capture the emotions of a child dealing with loss and the joy of reunion. The story is both relatable and touching, making it a classic that will be loved by many. The reviewer highly recommends it for its emotional resonance and beautiful artwork.

Quick quotes

    It is a simple, gorgeous story which pulls at the heartstrings cleverly and relatably.

    The illustrations are superb – evocative, busy and full of life.

    This is a book that will be cherished by many.

Laura Summers · Laura Summers · 2016-11-19
Heartwarming 4.50

The reviewer highlights the book's ability to help children understand loss and the importance of kindness, praising its relatable and heartwarming story.

Laura Summers' review emphasizes the emotional depth of 'Dogger', noting how it helps children cope with loss and understand kindness. The story of Dave and his beloved toy, Dogger, is both relatable and heartwarming. The reviewer praises the book for its ability to tackle complex emotions in a way that resonates with young readers, making it a great tool for teaching empathy and kindness.

Quick quotes

    This is a great book to help children not only understand about the loss of a beloved toy, but also the importance of kindness.

    It is a simple, gorgeous story which pulls at the heartstrings cleverly and relatably.

    The illustrations are superb – evocative, busy and full of life.

The Guardian · 2016-02-19
heartwarming 4.50

The illustrations are vibrant and full of emotion, but the true magic lies in the text, which beautifully captures the essence of childhood emotions. The story is a heartwarming tale that resonates deeply with readers.

The Guardian's review highlights the stunning illustrations in 'Dogger,' which are described as full of life and pathos. However, it's the author's skillful use of language that truly stands out, capturing the nuanced emotions of a child dealing with loss. This review suggests that 'Dogger' is a timeless classic that will be cherished by both children and adults alike. The reviewer appreciates the book's ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia and warmth, making it a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming story.

Quick quotes

    The illustrations are a joy; full of life and pathos.

    She skillfully captures the essence of what it is to be a child.

    Her words are the true wonder.

Appears in Lists