Ben has always had his big, floppy, untidy dog, Scrumpy. 'He was more than a dog, he was a very special friend.' Then one day Scrumpy becomes ill and dies. Ben doesn't think he can live without him. Everything he sees and does reminds him of Scrumpy, and the pain is terrible. His parents ask if he would like another dog, but his reaction is 'No! Never!' and he cries and cries. One day in the street he sees a dog chasing a cat, triggering off a series of almost disasters that make him laugh. He remembers a time when Scrumpy had a mishap with a tin of paint, and this memory helps him think about all the happy times they shared. Only then can he accept the thought of a new puppy. Honey will never take Scrumpy's place, but she, too, can be a special friend. Sensitive and beautifully presented.