Dear Beast is the first book in a series written by Dori Hillestad Butler and illustrated by Kevan Atteberry. The Yoakum County Library currently has 4 books in the series.
Simon, a cat, has taken care of Andy for years. Simon is a good cat and a good caretaker. He thinks Andy has everything he needs. So even when Andy’s dad moves out, Simon just knows Andy doesn’t need another pet. He doesn’t understand why Andy’s dad would adopt a dog. In Simon’s eyes, this dog is nothing but a troublemaker.
Simon decides the dog must go. He writes him a letter telling the dog in no uncertain terms that he must leave. The dog, Baxter, answers back and a correspondence ensues. Simon tries his best to convince Baxter to leave only to discover that being without Baxter makes Andy sad. Can Simon cope with Andy having another pet?
This story is told in alternating letters between Simon and Baxter. It is heartwarming. The illustrations are simple and peppy. Not only is it a story of love for a pet, it is also a story about making new friends. This series is appropriate for children who are transitioning from picture books to chapter books.