A universal feeling, grief and loss effects everyone. Inspired by author Emma’s own dogs. Goodbye Hobbs presents a carefully crafted story of how someone can move on after the loss of someone close to them.
In this poetic text we are introduced to Merlin. Merlin won’t go out because he misses his best friend Hobbs. Merkin’s owner takes him for a walk and he ends up on a journey to learn how to say Goodbye Hobbs and finds reasons to go for a walk again.
This new picture book by Emma Bettridge and Josephine Birch the feeling of grief and loss through the relatable character of Merlin. It also helps show children how they can move on past these feelings, whilst still remembering and honouring the person they miss.
MY REVIEW
I had a dog that died after 27 years, at home. I believe when my dog died he had a good life living that long.
Goodbye Hobbs , is a touching story about Hobbs, who has a beautiful shiny black Labrador.
To Hobbs, Merlin was the gentlest dog there ever was.
When Merlin dies he visits all the places where used to go for a walk with Hobbs.
This story not just tells the story of Merlin passing away, but it’s filled with poetry in a special way.
This is a story about grief and loss of someone very close to someone.
Goodbye Hobbs is very eye catching cover, with the amazing colourful illustrations.
An amazing story one that I recommend children reading as it might help them come to terms when grief strikes after an animal passes away.
About Emma Bettridge
Emma Bettridge is a theatre producer, director, festival curator, and a children’s picture book writer. She is currently working with the likes of Pins and Needles, Vic Llewellyn, Bea Roberts, Laila Diallo, Katy Owen, Jen Bell and Elisabeth Westcott and is an associate lecturer at Bath Spa University, on the M.A. Creative Producing course.
Bookread2day 
Wow 27 years is a good long life for a dog!
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