Rose the Cat-Dog

Albert pays homage to real-life family dog Rose, accompanied by Karaguiozova’s moving illustrations, in this joyful picture book. Rose, a white, curly-haired dog with a coal-black nose, acts like a cat (“She keeps to herself./ She loves to lick her paws.// She does not play fetch”). The pooch is concerned that her catlike demeanor will be a detriment when her adult humans—one brown-skinned and one pale-toned—bring home a brown-skinned, curly-haired baby. Determined to do right by the infant, Rose heeds the advice of local canines (“As dogs, it’s our duty to protect them, play with them.../ and love them too!!!”). When typical dog behaviors, such as barking at strangers to safeguard the baby, make her cry, Rose worries that she’ll never be the pup that her humans need. Albert’s lengthy text, which spans changing seasons, is sometimes stilted, but he imbues the narrative with warmth and genuine care. Karaguiozova’s soft, realistic illustrations envisage a smiling, stalwart dog and her affectionate family. This love letter to a beloved pet posits that being one’s truest self is the only way to save the day. Spreads feature photos of the real-life Rose. Ages 5–9. (Self-published)