THE MESSENGER written and illustrated by Lyndsay Robert Rayne

Lyndsay Robert Rayne illustrates a near wordless picture book that opens understanding of war in THE MESSENGER which honors the power of animals during WWI. Wisely, the author begins with the compassion of a young girl who volunteers her dear dog to help the war effort inspired in part by her father’s letter who complains of mud and rain. The protagonist shifts as the small dog heads off to War Dog School bonding with a mustachioed soldier whom he comforts during travels by train, boat, and marching ranks into dark, muddy trenches where they faces the horrors of the front lines. Rayne’s illustrations are evocative in setting and emotions.  Find out more in the Purchase link below