Dog Stayed
Debut picture book, published March 2026, available in stores and online.
Illustrated by Margeaux Davis
Published by Allen & Unwin
A tale of love, loyalty and the changing seasons of life. Mr Hindbottom does not want Dog, but Dog isn't going anywhere ... A heartwarming story about two grumpy but loveable characters and their journey of hope and renewal.
One morning, a man knocked on the door to sell something Mr Hindbottom did not need. Mr Hindbottom waved his cane, blew his nose, and slammed the door.
'And take your dirty, scruffy dog with you!' he yelled.
But the dog did not belong to the salesman, and the dog stayed.
When Dog turns up one day and stays – despite Mr Hindbottom's protests – they gradually find a comfortable way to get along. Life is good, but of course life doesn't stand still ...
When Mr Hindbottom is gone, can Dog ever love again?
"A heart-warming and emotional story, perfect for those who loved The Truck Cat." -Collins Booksellers
"A heart-warming and emotional story, perfect for those who loved The Truck Cat." -Collins Booksellers
Praise for Dog Stayed
BEST NEW BOOKS FOR MARCH 2026 - THE AGE
PICTURE BOOKS OF THE MONTH - THE OBSERVER, UK
KIDS’ BOOK OF THE MONTH - COLLINS BOOKSELLERS
PICTURE BOOK OF THE MONTH - LAMONT BOOKS (SCHOOL LIBRARY PROVIDER)
“I haven’t felt such emotion in a short space since the opening sequence to the movie “UP”!
Holy butter on toast!'“
— Goodreads review“Favourite release of this year so far alert.”
— Instagram, Love Four Reading“The lesson of this deceptively simple tale, which is beautifully illustrated with a lovely eye for detail, is of the endurance of love.”
— The Age“I read the title and my heart instantly skipped a beat.”
— Instagram“This gentle book shows how a dog can transform a lonely life, bringing warmth, new found joy, companionship and light into a quiet home.”
— Good Reading“A great book for gently exploring the cycle of life with kids.”
— The Observer, UK“Sometimes a book sneaks up on you…and suddenly you’re trying not to ugly cry at the counter.”
— Marsden Books, NZ“Tammy and Margeaux have built a beautiful story of companionship. The words and illustrations are so well woven and simple, providing a wonderful narrative that will please adults and children alike.”
— Amazon review“This has been a beloved book, with a heartfelt response from our Year 1 students. One student insisted on taking it home to show his dad…and confirmed the next week his dad had cried. Such an important story to be able to share with families that need it most. Bravo.”
— Instagram, Teacher Librarian“The way I immediately burst into tears when we unboxed Dog Stayed.”
— Gleebooks Dulwich