Willow Finds Her Wag! by James Mullinger

Willow is curious about everything in her new home. Her cozy bed. Her shiny bowl. Her warm, loving family. But when it comes to other dogs, Willow isn't so sure. They are loud. They are bouncy. They seem to know exactly what they're doing. But Willow? Willow would much rather pretend she has very important seaweed business than say hello.

Set against the windswept beauty of Atlantic Canada's coastline, Willow Finds Her Wag is a tender, funny, and deeply relatable story about shyness, courage, and connection. Through playful, rhythmic storytelling and gentle humour, readers follow Willow as she watches other dogs from a distance, unsure how to join in.

Everything changes one breezy afternoon at the beach when Willow hears a small, frightened whimper. A tiny terrier is tangled in seaweed and unable to move. Without thinking, Willow overcomes her fear and rushes to help. In that moment of bravery, she discovers something unexpected, not just her courage, but her place among others. As the other dogs gather, Willow learns that friendship simply takes one small, brave step.

Written by father and son duo James and River Mullinger and inspired by their real-life dog, this beautifully paced picture book blends warmth, humour, and emotional honesty. Willow Finds Her Wag speaks to anyone who has ever felt shy, unsure, or on the outside looking in. This is a story about finding your confidence, discovering your voice, and realizing that sometimes the best way to make a friend is to be one first.