Overview

Imagine a sun-drenched afternoon in a vibrant, bustling park. This is where we meet Silly Tilly, a lovable American Bulldog with a fondness for the peculiar. Tilly, with her floppy ears and a perpetually wagging tail, is always brimming with outlandish ideas. Today, she's decided to host a ""cloud-catching competition,"" armed with a butterfly net and a determined spirit. Amidst her whimsical pursuits, Tilly spots a tiny dachshund puppy, Dash, bouncing with boundless energy. He's chasing his beloved red ball, Bouncer, a bright, cheerful sphere that seems to share Dash's infectious enthusiasm. Dash's short legs and long body make his playful leaps look hilariously bouncy, and Tilly is instantly captivated. A friendship blossoms instantly. Tilly and Dash, with Bouncer as their shared plaything, embark on a series of delightful adventures. They explore hidden corners of the park, invent silly games and share secrets whispered in the shade of a giant oak tree. Dash's joy is infectious, and Tilly finds herself laughing more than she ever has before. One afternoon, in the heat of a particularly exuberant chase, Dash, caught up in the thrill of retrieving Bouncer, darts out of the park and into the busy street. A sudden, sharp sound shatters the playful atmosphere. Tilly watches in horror as a car strikes Dash. Panic and fear grip Tilly as she rushes to her friend's side. A kind, gentle lady, witnessing the accident, offers her assistance, and together, they rush Dash to the veterinarian. The waiting room is filled with a heavy silence, a stark contrast to the joyful moments they had shared just hours before. The vet's words are gentle but devastating. Dash's injuries are too severe; there's nothing more they can do. The kindest, most compassionate option is to let him go peacefully. Tilly's world seems to tilt on its axis. The vibrant park, the cheerful Bouncer, and Dash's infectious laughter all fade into a blur of grief. The story then shifts to Tilly's journey through mourning. The initial shock gives way to a deep sadness, a hollow ache where Dash's playful energy used to be. Tilly struggles to understand why her friend, so full of life, is suddenly gone. However, amidst her grief, Tilly discovers the power of cherished memories. She recalls Dash's boundless enthusiasm, his unwavering loyalty, and the sheer joy he brought to her life. She decides to celebrate his memory, to keep his spirit alive. Tilly organises a ""Bouncer's Bash,"" a party filled with laughter, shared stories, and red balloons, a tribute to Dash and his beloved ball. She also creates ""Dash's Do-Gooders,"" a club dedicated to spreading kindness and joy, just as Dash did. The club's motto is, ""Live like Dash: with a wagging tail and a happy heart."" The story concludes with Tilly, surrounded by her new friends, looking at the setting sun, with a gentle smile on her face. She understands that while Dash is gone, his memory, and the lessons of friendship and love he taught her, will live on forever. The park, once again filled with the sounds of laughter, becomes a testament to the enduring power of friendship and the importance of cherishing every precious moment.

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9781764056502

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Reviews

A Day in the Life of... Silly Tilly!""Dash & His Red Ball, Bouncer"" by Nikkie Maud '...is a heartwarming children's story that explores themes of friendship, loss, and resilience. The book centres on Silly Tilly, an imaginative American Bulldog, and her friendship with Dash, a spirited dachshund puppy.' 'Maud handles the sensitive topic of death with gentleness and compassion, making it accessible to young readers. The story emphasises the importance of cherishing memories and finding ways to celebrate the lives of those we've lost.' 'Tilly is a vibrant and endearing protagonist whose zest for life and loyalty to her friends is central to the story. Dash is portrayed as a joyful and energetic companion, making his loss all the more touching. Supporting characters like Sage and Barnaby add depth to Tilly's journey and provide comfort and wisdom.' 'Maud's writing is engaging and accessible for young readers. The narrative is well-paced, effectively balancing moments of joy and sorrow. The author uses vivid descriptions and dialogue to bring the characters and their emotions to life.' 'The book's design and illustrations contribute to the overall reading experience. The cover and internal layout are credited to nikkieMAUDdesign.' ' ""Dash & His Red Ball, Bouncer"" is a touching and important book for young readers. It tackles difficult emotions with sensitivity and offers a message of hope and resilience. The story is likely to resonate with children who have experienced loss while also celebrating the power of friendship and the joy of life.'

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