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Friday, March 27, 2026

Gus Upstairs, written and illustrated by Carey Sookocheff. Owlkids, 2006. $22.95 ages 4 and up

 


"Ms. Wilson wished for silence 
so she could play her piano. 

Gus wished for the music to continue
so he wouldn't feel so alone. 

WOOF     WOOF 
        WOOF       WOOF
     WOOF                   WOOF" 

This tale of those who share living in an apartment building starts with Ms. Wilson who has been in residence for some time. In that time, she has learned the way things work, including the sounds made by the people who live in the apartment above her. She has become familiar with their daily lives and habits. She especially enjoys Monday mornings when a new week starts with work and school for the Lam family, and silence for her. 

She can turn once again to her love of music - the sounds that come from playing her piano. She does not know the Lams have adopted a dog, who is now left on his own for the day. Feeling lonely, the dog perks up as soon as he hears her music. Loud barks and lonely howls have an adverse effect on Ms. Wilson's pleasure. As Gus grows weary of barking, Ms. Wilson grows equally weary of playing her piano. Blessed silence fills the building. 

Day after day, whether she is playing the violin or her guitar, Gus howls. When she quits playing and Gus quits howling, her ears are now filled with the whining sadness of a dog left on his own. All she can see to do is to leave a note for the Lams, addressing the problem and offering a solution. The following morning as the family prepares to leave for the day, Ms. Wilson is waiting for them downstairs. Her solution is a win for all!

Young listeners who tend to love stories where pets are concerned will find joy in this story of cooperation and friendship. Ms. Sookocheff fills the pages with sound, action, and emotion. Providing a realistic and comforting solution to the problem faced will only add to their satisfaction.  

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