Making Up with Mr. Dog Hollow Tree Stories

by Albert Bigelow Paine

"Making Up with Mr. Dog" by Albert Bigelow Paine is a whimsical children's book written in the late 19th century, part of a larger series known as the Hollow Tree Stories. The book centers around the interactions and adventures of various animal characters, including Mr. Dog, Mr. Rabbit, Old Black Crow, Mr. 'Coon, and Mr. 'Possum, emphasizing themes of friendship, misunderstandings, and ultimately reconciliation. In the story, the characters run a boarding house called the Hollow Tree Inn. They find themselves in a comic predicament when Mr. Dog tries to join their little community, creating tension due to past grievances. The animals devise clever ways to keep Mr. Dog at bay, leading to humorous situations, including a fishing escapade that doesn't go as planned. Eventually, Mr. Dog's earnest attempts to befriend the other animals culminate in a touching reunion, where they embrace him and celebrate their newfound friendship with a banquet. The narrative combines light-hearted humor with life lessons about acceptance and the importance of community, making it an engaging read for children.