Mela - by Maddalena Schiavo (Hardcover)

About the Book

A rescue dog and her new owner learn how to trust each other and become a family.

Book Synopsis

Trusting someone takes time. It's a process that requires a lot of patience and love--especially when such a bond needs to be forged between a rescued animal with an unknown past and a new family with expectations of their own. Written by Maddalena Schiavo and based on illustrator Eleonora Pace's real-life journey of adopting a dog whom she named Mela (Italian for "apple"), this tender picture book narrated in first person will strike a chord with animal lovers and pet owners of every age and provide a springboard for social and emotional learning (SEL).

Review Quotes

Bank Street's Best Books of the Year 2025 Under Five Social-Emotional Learning Outstanding Merit

This story of patience, warmth, and gentleness celebrates the growth of love and trust between a girl and a rescue dog. Expressive, finely detailed art.

"This is a touching story..." --Pamela Kramer

"Perfect for a social emotional learning lesson for younger grades..." --Children's Literature

"'Mela' doesn't so much tell a story as it traces emotional arcs: from solitude to togetherness, from unease to contentment, from anxiety to calm." --Wall Street Journal

"beautifully illustrated and charming storyline..." -- Midwest Book Review