“George is old and deaf in one ear, and he doesn’t run fast anymore.” The brown-spotted white dog, clearly beloved, still needs to go for walks, however. Rosie is too little to walk George alone but sometimes the whole family walks him along the beach near their home. Rosie, the youngest, “lags behind, rolling her ball near the sea.” George is slow too. “He steps. And stops. And looks around.” He notices birds and shells and waves. And Rosie. “He keeps an eye on Rosie.” As George and Rosie follow the others, Rosie rolls her red ball and cartwheels. George sniffs and soaks up the sun, steps and stops, and keeps his eye on Rosie. Sensory language, skillful pacing, and small satisfying moments of repetition immerse children in a story that defies predictability, taking a gently surprising turn when Rosie’s ball is lost to the waves. George watches the ball float out to sea. And watches. “All through the dark summer night until morning … when a bright red dot rolls off a wave and onto the beach.” The wonderful narrative is paired with lovely illustrations that evoke the seashore and a loving, multiracial family. The art also subtly reflects the passage of time referenced at story’s end. Rosie is a little bit older (her hair visibly longer), and so is George. “But he still needs a walk. And he still keeps an eye on Rosie.” (Ages 3-7)

From a New York Times bestselling author and a New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book honoree, a heartfelt story about taking time to enjoy those you're with and the world around you.

George is an old dog, and he doesn't run fast anymore. But he still needs a walk, and each day, Mother, Dad, and the big kids take turns. Rosie, the little one, trails behind. George doesn't hurry. And he always, always keeps an eye on Rosie. Imbued with warmth, this lovely oceanside tale from New York Times bestselling author Amy Hest and two-time New York Times Best Illustrated Children's Book honoree Taeeun Yoo celebrates the idea of quiet, unhurried moments with loved ones and the beautiful connection between young and old.