This children’s book follows Lucky, a sweet little dog from Conakry, Guinea, who gets adopted by a U.S. diplomat and then has to travel across the world when his owner gets transferred to Washington, DC. The book tells the story through Lucky’s eyes, so you feel every bit of his confusion, fear, and excitement as he goes from Africa to France to the United States. Along the way, Lucky meets new friends, kind people, and even learns what it means to be brave and loved across distances. By the end, Lucky understands that even though his “trip” was scary at first, it brought him to new family and adventures.

I really liked how this picture book mixes heart and real-world experiences. You can feel the author’s love for animals and her deep understanding of the Foreign Service life. The writing is simple enough for kids, but it still carries a lot of emotion. It’s a tender story about trust, change, and belonging. And the idea of showing life through the eyes of a traveling dog was brilliant. It gives kids a safe, gentle way to explore big feelings like separation and homesickness without it ever feeling too heavy.

The illustrations are so warm and full of life. They make every scene feel colorful and comforting. And I loved the glossary and tips at the end. They turn the story into something more than a bedtime read. It becomes a small lesson in global living, empathy, and courage. You can tell the author’s background in diplomacy shaped how thoughtfully she explains the idea of travel and duty. There’s a quiet pride behind every word.

I’d definitely recommend Have a Good Trip, Lucky! for kids who have parents in the military, Foreign Service, or any job that involves moving a lot. It’s also perfect for any child who has ever had to say goodbye, even for a little while. The story is gentle, hopeful, and real. It reminds you that home isn’t just one place. It’s the people, and sometimes the pets, who love you no matter where in the world you end up.

Pages: 38 | ISBN : 1779445385