Forever Ripley - by McCall Hoyle (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A deeply personal middle-grade novel by award-winning author McCall Hoyle affirms the powerful and enduring relationship between dogs and humans.

Ripley, an aging German Shepherd Dog, spent her life guarding the wildlife refuge with Max, the best man she's ever known. But that was before the accident, before he gave her one final job: "Take care of the girls."

And Ripley has done just that--especially for Charlie, the girl Ripley loves even more than peanut butter. Ripley watches over Charlie with dedication, especially when faced with bullies who threaten the refuge. But Ripley is slowing down. She knows dogs don't last forever.

Sensing their time together is running out, Charlie plans a farewell adventure filled with Ripley's favorite things--fried chicken, sandpiper chasing on the beach, and ice cream in Nags Head. Through it all, they learn that love isn't about holding on--it's about lifting each other up.

A heartwarming tribute to love, resilience, and the joy of a life well lived, Forever Ripley proves that even in goodbye, there is beauty, courage, and the promise of new beginnings.

Review Quotes

"Heartbreakingly poignant, this tender middle grade book about grief, dying, love, friendship and pride truly stands apart in its exploration of these tough topics from a wise dog's perspective. A tearjerking realistic fiction read about love and loss that should be added to all middle grade collections."

-- "School Library Journal, starred" (10/8/2025 12:00:00 AM)

"If you've ever loved a dog, you need this book. And if you've never loved a dog, trust me: after reading Forever Ripley, you will. Tender, joyful, and wise, this is truly a story to cherish."

-- "Katherine Applegate" (12/11/2025 12:00:00 AM)

"Passionate and tender . . . an affecting emotional roller coaster chronicling a loyal dog's last days with her human family."

-- "Kirkus" (8/28/2025 12:00:00 AM)

About the Author

McCall Hoyle is an award-winning author and teacher librarian. She writes heartfelt books for kids of all ages and believes one of the best ways to spread hope is by writing about the special bond between dogs and their humans. When McCall isn't writing or teaching, you can find her training one of her four-legged friends for agility, obedience, or dock diving in the foothills of the North Georgia Mountains she calls home.

You can learn more about her at mccallhoyle.com or visit her on Facebook or Instagram @McCallHoyleBooks.