Hello! My name is Parker, and this is my story.

Parker The Homeless Dog by Bob Merz is about a dog who wants to be adopted by a family.

The homeless dog sleeps under a car, looks for food in garbage cans, and gets yelled at and kicked. Even children laugh at her and throw rocks at her. All the dog’s attempts to impress people with hat a nice dog she is go nowhere. A dogcatcher captures her, but a kind teacher tells the dogcatcher that the dog belongs to her. She names her Parker and takes her home to a loving family. The author uses the book to illustrate the attribute of empathy. This is the first in a planned series featuring Parker to teach children about necessary and useful life skills. The book is illustrated by Debbie J. Hefke and is based on a true story.

Kids of all ages will enjoy reading Parker The Homeless Dog by Bob Merz. I certainly did. The story is charming and carries a wonderful message. The author certainly meets his goal of teaching the quality of empathy. Also, I believe that many children will be able to identify with Parker the dog. If they are being bullied or feel left out, they’ll learn that there’s hope for them to be accepted. The feelgood ending will please anyone who reads this book. Although Merz doesn’t say what ages the book is for, it would be perfect for youngsters who are just learning to read or old enough to be read to. Debbie J. Hefke's illustrations fit perfectly and add much to the enjoyment of the story. I highly recommend this book to children, their parents, and their grandparents.

A heartwarming read that inspires belief in the power of kindness…

In Merz’s debut installment in a proposed series, Parker, a homeless pup, learns the true meaning of compassion and kindness. A stray puppy roams the harsh streets, longing for a home and identity. Her luck changes when Miss Jean, a kind teacher, rescues her from the dogcatcher, giving her a life filled with love and purpose. Through Parker’s innocent yet determined voice, young readers are exposed to the daily struggles she faces for survival amidst human cruelty. The writing skillfully captures the pup’s emotions, from the delight of finding food to the terror of being pursued by the dogcatcher. Merz’s simple yet impactful language makes the story accessible to all, while the repetition of phrases adds a charming touch to Parker’s character. Accompanied by Debbie J. Hefke’s stunning illustrations, this book brings Parker’s journey to life with vibrant art that captures the heart. A powerful lesson in empathy, this story reminds children that one person can make a difference by looking beyond surface appearances. A must-have for children’s bookshelves.

Parker The Homeless Dog

Merz starts his Parker the Homeless Dog series with this heartwarming debut of a young puppy, drawn from Merz’s own experience with a rescue dog, searching for her forever home. The story starts with the picture-perfect dreams of every dog—sleeping in a fluffy bed, playing fetch, and hanging out with family—but quickly detours into reality for this book’s sweet protagonist: sleeping under cars, searching through trash for breakfast, and hunting for clean water to drink, all while dreaming of “having a home and family of my very own.” From there, readers will join the often-frightening adventures of a dog without a home, from bullies to dogcatchers to an endless hunt to stave off starvation for one more day.

Younger readers will instantly fall for Merz’s soul-eyed, happy-dancing pup, who, despite the hard knocks of her life on the street, manages to keep an innocent trust in the world around her. Every time she runs into people, she tries her best to impress, in hopes of finding a friend; more often than not, that ends with her mistreatment, as when a group of school children laugh at her and throw rocks, prompting her to cry “why don’t those kids like me?” Readers will be crushed at the puppy’s despair, and empathize with her melancholy: “I’m cute, I dance, and I give smiley smiles. What’s not to like” she whimpers.

Thankfully, this teary tale has a warm, fuzzy ending, as the puppy meets a teacher named Jean, who steps in at just the right moment to save her from calamity, gifting her with a collar and a name of her own—Parker. Hefke’s bold illustrations bring Parker to vivid life, from her expressive puppy eyes to her excited jumping, and her declaration at the end—that a collar “feels so good… Like love” will thaw even the hardest hearts.

A book that not only fills your shelves but also warms your heart…

Parker the Homeless is not just a book; it’s a heartfelt journey that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the joy of connection. This adorable little dog, with his soulful eyes and unwavering spirit, has the unique ability to capture hearts and inspire readers to embrace the beauty of life’s adventures.

Step into a world where storytelling meets stunning artistry, brought to life by the talented Bob Merz. His enchanting narratives, paired with exquisite illustrations, invite you to experience the poignant journey of a homeless dog—an embodiment of hope, resilience, and the unconditional love that transcends all barriers.

Imagine a book that not only fills your shelves but also warms your heart—a delightful addition to your home or local library. Parker's sweet disposition shines through every page, inviting readers into a world where kindness and adventure intertwine. This enchanting narrative is more than just a story; it’s an opportunity to foster community connections and create shared experiences that resonate with all ages.