Dear Moxie, Dear Rex - by Cathy Petter

About the Book

When a family brings home a second, younger puppy, the two dogs (the older Moxie and the younger Rex) begin exchanging letters that, on the surface, appear kind. However, a closer look reveals their true feelings. One thing is clear, Moxie is determined to get rid of the younger Rex. Will Moxie's letters rid her of this nuisance, or will the appearance of a cat finally unite them?

Book Synopsis

When a family brings home Rex from the dog shelter, Moxie isn't too pleased. On the surface, the older Moxie and the younger Rex seem cordial in their letters to each other. However, a closer look reveals their true feelings . . . Rex is excited to belong to a new, loving family, after being adopted from the dog shelter. He's not the only dog in his new home, though, as he is introduced to the family's other dog, Moxie. Rex starts writing letters to Moxie, complimenting her on her quickness getting treats and how shiny her coat is from eating all those treats, and even suggesting she be more comfortable in a larger pillow. As the letters become more frequent, Moxie becomes more suspicious of the true intentions of the letters. Soon, she decides that Rex doesn't belong in the home any longer, so she becomes determined to get rid of the younger Rex. Will Moxie's letters to Rex rid her of this nuisance, or will the appearance of an arch enemy, a CAT, finally unite them? Dear Moxie, Dear Rex is a hilarious story about a home that gets a bit crowded with a new pet in the house, especially one with such a large ego! Author Cathy Petter and illustrator Bryony Clarkson team up to create a laugh-out-loud story filled with shenanigans but also lessons for young readers on developing friendships and fostering inclusion. Parents and educators can help children draw connections to the way they interact with each other at home or school. Classroom Friendships: Many children experience the start of school and progression to higher grades as a group, but there are often occasions when new students are introduced to a close-knit group, and making friends and becoming more inclusive can often be very intimidating. New Siblings: At home, children often experience the arrival of a new sibling in their lives. With their parents' or guardians' full attention no longer given to them, some children can become resentful towards the new family member in the home.