Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Milton Makes a Move by Jonathan Graziano, illustrated by Dan Tavis

Milton Makes a Move  Jonathan Graziano, illustrated by Dan Tavis
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books/ Simon & Schuster 
Publishing:  August 4th, 2026
Format Read:  Hardcover
Number of pages:   32 pages
Source: Publisher in exchange for an honest review

Opening Lines:  "Milton was a pug who lived in a house with a big yard and a lot of other dogs."

Milton gets a new home and feels a little worried about taking on this new adventure.  He was used to his big yard and all the activity that came with it.  His new owner, Jonathan, previously cared for a pug, he adored, and is eager to help Milton feel less nervous.  As the two get to know each other, they end up learning how to be brave together.  

This picture book is absolutely charming, highlighting how a good friend and a trusty raincoat can make facing something new feel a lot less scary.  Dan Tavis's illustrations are full of delightful details, like dogs playing tug-of-war with a tire, dogs of differing sizes chasing each other around the yard, tiny spiders tucked into corners, birds perched around the yard, and even a cat casually strolling along a fence to find.  Wonderfully endearing.  

Milton Makes a Move was inspired by the creator of the Bones or No Bones TikTok series, where each day Noodle's owner would gently lift him up from his bed.  If Noodle stood, it signaled a productive day, but if he flopped back down, it meant a cozy day of rest and staying at home.   After Noodle passed, Jonathan fostered Milton, eventually adopting him and providing him with his forever home.  I love how this story illustrates that older dogs need love, patience and understanding too. 

This book is a great pick for animal lovers or for kids experiencing a transition in their lives.  With its uplifting messages about courage, companionship and encouragement to see change as an adventure, I'm sure it'll be a hit.  Other books in the series include Noodle and the No Bones Day and Noodle Conquers Comfy Mountain.   

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