Hachiko Waits by Leslea Newman

Everyday Professor Ueno and his dog arrive at the train station where the professor catches a train to work. Everyday around 3 o’clock, the faithful dog Hachi is at the station waiting for his master. Yasuo, a young boy who takes the train to school, befriends Hachi and and visits him regularly. Then one day Professor Ueno’s train arrives, but he is not on it, but still Hachi waits.

For ten years, Hachi continues to wait for his master who can no longer return. Yasuo takes care of Hachi and even tries to take him home, but Hachi will not leave his post. Hachi’s bittersweet story of utter faithfulness inspired the Japanese people and continues to inspire young readers today.

Recommended ages--9 and up