Book Summary

A classic children’s tale of loyalty, perseverance, and the bond of friendship between a boy and his dog.

Ever since he lost his parents as a baby, Nello has been raised by his caring grandfather in a small village near Antwerp in Flanders. One day they find a dog, injured and alone. Naming the pitiable creature Patrasche, Nello and his grandfather nurse him back to health—and forever after, the child and pup are inseparable.

A Dog of Flanders follows both boy and dog as Nello strives to better his lot in life, from trying to fulfill his heart’s desire and become a great artist to his heart breaking as his true love is forbidden from being seen with someone poor like him. Through life’s hardships—from fire and famine to the unkindness of others—Nello and Patrasche carry on together with the greatest power of all: hope.

As touching as it is timeless, A Dog of Flanders remains one of the finest children’s stories in classic literature.