A Rainbow Bridge for Gus by Barbara Bareis Rigabar is a touching tale of love and loss.  While out on a bike ride with her dad, Gracie sees a rainbow in the sky.  She immediately thinks of her dog, Gus, who passed away.

Gracie's dad stops the bike at one of Gus' favorite spots:  the park.  While there, the pair remember all of the wonderful memories that they have of their beloved pooch.  Her dad then explains why Gus crossed over the Rainbow Bridge into heaven.

Gracie knows that Gus will always be in her heart and that someday, they will be reunited once again.  Until that day, she will be reminded of their bond every time she sees a rainbow.

I greatly enjoyed reading this book.  The illustrations are whimsical and sure to be adored by children of all ages.
Rigabar masterfully writes about the delicate subject of death in a way that will educate, not frighten.  Through her story, she encourages children to share their feelings of sadness, but to also remember the joyful times.  There is even a special section at the end of the book in which children are encouraged to write their own story about a pet that they have lost.

This book is a must read for animal lovers and anyone who has ever dealt with the loss of a pet.  I believe that young and old alike will relate to Rigabar's message that love transcends mortality and lasts forever.    
     

Hedghug's Halloween by Benn Sutton tells the tail of a loveable hedgehog in search of a Halloween costume.  Hedgehug is preparing to relax for the evening when his friend, Hannah, pays him a visit.  He cannot figure out why she is dressed up as a cowgirl.

Hannah reminds Hedgehug that it is the night of the biggest Halloween party in the entire forest. Having completely forgotten, Hedgehug begins the frantic search for a costume. But things don't go exactly as planned.  Will Hedgehug be able to find the perfect costume in time for the party?

I really enjoyed reading this book.  The illustrations were simplistic, yet adorable.  However, I do wish that the story would have been a slightly longer.  I feel that the resolution to Hedgehug's problem was a bit rushed and unexplained.  Overall, I believe that children ages 3-9 will love following Hedgehug on his Halloween adventure.