What Coco Can Do

A vibrant, loving tribute to the good that dogs do—especially everyday heroes like Coco, who comfort humans experiencing hardship, trauma, and loss.

Coco is a dog who can cuddle. He’s not like Luna, who lives with cheetahs at the zoo, or super sniffer Lucky or Jax the lifeguard dog. From cattle dogs to four-footed movie stars, there is no end to canine achievement. But Coco, in his special vest, is no less exceptional: he can bring comfort to a person with a fearful, lonely, or hurting heart. His cuddling makes others feel stronger and less alone. From a beloved picture book author and a gifted illustrator, this irresistible tribute to the therapeutic genius of dogs brims with warmth and humor. With art that captures the energy of accomplished canines at work and at play (often at the same time), this joyful roundup of talented pooches—punctuated every couple of pages by a cuddle with Coco—will send you straight to the couch for a snuggle with someone special.

Maribeth Boelts is the author of many well-loved picture books, including Those Shoes and A Bike Like Sergio’s, both illustrated by Noah Z. Jones; Happy Like Soccer, illustrated by Lauren Castillo; Kaia and the Bees, illustrated by Angela Dominguez; and The Purple Puffy Coat, illustrated by Daniel Duncan. She lives in Iowa with her family and their new dog.

Stephanie Laberis is the illustrator of Poo-Dunit? A Forest Floor Mystery by Katelyn Aronson, Orangutan Hats and Other Tools Animals Use by Richard Haynes, and many other books for children. She is also a character designer who specializes in creating art for animation and toys. She lives in San Francisco.