Socrates

Socrates' parents have been snatched up by the dogcatcher, leaving him an orphan alone on the streets. Abandoned, hungry, and shunned by the other street dogs, Socrates wonders if he'll ever have a home of his very own. And even more importantly, he wonders if he'll ever have a friend. Then one day Socrates finds a curious object, and from that moment on, everyone looks at him quite differently. Heartwarming and uplifting, the simple text is magnificently complemented by bold, textured oil paintings in this story of the universal search for friendship and acceptance that also works to initiate discussions on topics such as loneliness and homelessness.

Rascal has pursued a variety of careers, ranging from advertising to painting, but has now committed himself to creating children's books full time. Rascal lives in Belgium.

Gert Bogaerts recently graduated from art school, and this is his first book. He also lives in Belgium.