The Angel Knew Papa and the Dog

After 15 years, Douglas Kaine McKelvey’s lyrical frontier fantasy, The Angel Knew Papa and the Dog, is back in print in a beautiful new paperback edition with brand new cover art painted by Zach Franzen. Rabbit Room Press is pleased to make this well-loved title available again. 

“This book is a small masterpiece.” —Cynthia Rylant, Newberry Medal Winner

“Douglas Kaine McKelvey has found poetry in this hardscrabble saga... The hint of mysticism only sharpens the real rigors of this story about a father’s love and a child’s belief.” 

—Richard Peck, Newberry Medal Winner

 “This short, sweet tale of faith reads like a song… McKelvey's words are rich and eloquent; this book would be a great read-aloud after supper while the whole family is gathered together.”

—Children's Literature, Donna Freedman

There is a certain power in stories that leave us with the impression of a mysterious force at work in the lives of simple people... McKelvey captures this mystery with a potent simplicity.

—Russ Ramsey, author of Behold The King of Glory

“McKelvey's first children's story is a small jewel… A lovely tale about the mysteries of love and faith.”

—Kirkus Reviews (pointer review)

“This story is beautiful—beautiful in a mysterious, hopeful, wise way that gives the reader an assurance that though the waters rise and the night falls there is a great good in the world that hovers over the deep. I loved this book."

—Andrew Peterson, author of The Wingfeather Saga

“McKelvey's writing is sparse and lyrical, perhaps reflecting his previous efforts as a poet and songwriter…this is a fine piece of writing that should find a niche with sensitive readers.”

—Kay Weisman, Booklist (starred review)