*A finished hardcover copy of STERLING, BEST DOG EVER by Aidan Cassie was sent to me by the publisher, Macmillan, for free for an honest review. All thoughts here are my very own.

A timeless story about a pup trying to find a forever home, learning to be himself, and accepting himself and, once he can do that, also accepting the fact that everyone else will love him too!

Sterling trying to please his new owners in any way possible was funny and sad. His quirky antics in trying to be the best fork possible, and then trying to be anything else that the family could possibly need really made us smile and laugh out loud. However, the realization that maybe Sterling should just be himself brought on an endearing conversation on how sometimes we try to be something that we are not just to make someone happy when we should always be the best "me" that we could possibly be. When Sterling finally realizes that, happy smiles all around! We knew he could do it!

This illustrated book has become one of our favorites! The details and relatable pictures are really well made and engaging.

A wonderful book for all children to learn that people-pleasing is not the way to do things; a reminder to always be ourselves, the very best version of ourselves and no matter what! ( )