A Heartwarming Picture Book About Curiosity, Friendship, and Celebrating What Makes Us Unique
Author: Elena McBride
Illustrator: Blake Marsee
Age range: 3-7 years
Year: 2026
Nacho is a big, goofy pup who wakes up every morning with one main goal: to make as many doggy friends as possible. So, when he sets out for his daily neighborhood walk, he is ready to mingle! He eagerly runs up to every single creature he encounters with the exact same enthusiastic question: “What kind of dog are you?”
To Nacho’s utter surprise, the neighborhood is filled with characters who don’t bark, fetch, or look like him at all! From scuttling critters to flying feathered friends, each new neighbor takes a moment to teach Nacho what makes them unique. What Kind of Dog Are You? is a human-centric, empathetic tale about stepping outside your own bubble, embracing differences, and realizing that a true friend can come in any shape, size, or species.
Why this book is helpful:
- Encourages curiosity by showing children the joy of learning about others.
- Celebrates differences in a gentle, age-appropriate way.
- Promotes kindness and friendship through positive social interactions.
- Supports early learning about animals and the world around us.
- Creates opportunities for discussion about identity, similarities, and differences.
- Perfect for read-aloud time with plenty of repetition that young children will enjoy.
After reading Nacho’s story with your little one, head outside for a walk around your own block. Encourage your child to play “Nacho” by spotting local wildlife—birds, squirrels, or cats and asking, “What makes that neighbor unique?” It’s a creative, empathetic way to build community awareness and turn a simple stroll into a fun lesson in observation.
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