When Emily Dickinson was given a puppy by her father, the two were
instant best friends. She named him Carlo, after a dog in one of her
favorite books, and she delighted in the growing dog's antics. Carlo, a
Newfoundland (and possibly part Saint Bernard), grew to a rather large
size and was full of energy. He loved his adventures with Emily. They
were an odd pair--a tiny woman and a large, galumphing dog. But they
were devoted to one another. Carlo gave Emily confidence to wander and
explore the woods and hills near her home, and he listened to her
stories and poems. This touching story--delightfully illustrated by
Catherine Stock--gives a new insight into the life of the famed
reclusive poet of Amherst, Massachusetts. Learning of her close
friendship and love for Carlo sheds a new light on the thoughts and
feelings of a woman believed to be lonely. Carlo is present in much of
her poetry, and readers learn of a woman of charm and wit who loved her
constant companion.