The Writer

Synopsis: A dog has an important job to do, especially if his human is a writer. But even the world’s best French bulldog can’t do everything. Maybe this perfect pair needs someone new in their lives…

The Writer by Davide Calí (illustrated by Monica Barengo) is a delightful little book. The story is from the first-canine narrative of a cute French bulldog.

I stumbled upon it accidentally while browsing for new books to read on the National Library Board (NLB) (link to borrow here).

The book is only 40 pages long with not a lot of words in it, but it is full of character. The muted illustrations of everyday life and the Frenchie’s expressions are a joy to experience!

(Psssstt… me too!…)

For me, what makes this story come to life is the drawings by Monica Barengo. Davide Calí penned short sentences that depict the thoughts of the Frenchie really well. Although this is a children’s book, it appeals to adults too—especially to writers. Or readers. Or artists. Or just about to anyone who loves being alone (like me).

Jag har en plan! The little Frenchie manages to get The Writer out of the house, and it is his hope that his master will find someone to share his life with other than tic-tic-tic-ing on his computer hela tiden.

Life is wonderful with The Writer. But can it be better? More wonderful—wonderfuller?…