Here’s what everyone thinks about Murray Goes to the Playground!

Reviews

Adorable! Murray is not only an adorable dog, he’s a smart dog with a message for all children. No matter who you are, or whether you might be “different,” perseverance, attitude, and bravery will be your guide towards wonderful adventures and help you find your way along your journey. A lovely story for children of all ages, teaching us that being true to who we are is what matters in life. That, and barking really loud when needed.
Murray and the Lady’s trip to a NYC dog park is a heartfelt story that resonates with children and adults alike. With playful writing and Scot Ritchie’s nostalgic illustrations, it’s a timeless read and a gentle reminder about kindness, resilience, and belonging. I wholeheartedly recommend it as a way to spark conversations with your child about friendship—and to remind them that there is always someone who will be their friend, just as they can be that someone for others.

I knew my three year old grandson would love this book, but I never expected our 21 month old granddaughter to be smitten. She’s obsessed with Murray and wants the story read again and again and again. This is well written and the illustrations are engaging. It ought to be a series. MORE MURRAY PLEASE!!

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This is a perfect book for teaching kids about perseverance and kindness! My grandson loves it. We are reading it over and over again!

A beautifully written and illustrated children’s book with an important lesson on friendship. A great gift to give to children.
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My almost five year old niece fell in love with Murray and loves going to the playground!
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There are so many books out there for this age. I wasn’t sure where to turn. I was so glad to find this one. I loved how the story balanced fun moments with important lessons. Perfect for bedtime! Also a great way to help kids talk about their own challenges with making friends.
5 star review amazon
This book is so cute!! My 3 year old is having trouble learning to ask his friends at school if they want to play. Since he can’t really explain to me why it’s so hard, I’m hoping this book will help him understand it’s not scary and even if he gets turned down, there WILL be someone who wants to play if he doesn’t give up. I’m so excited to add this to our reading routine!!
5 star review amazon
Such a lovely and beautifully-illustrated story! Kids (and many adults) will relate to our main character Murray the sheepadoodle, who just wants to make friends at the dog park but is nervous about whether the other dogs will like him. This book has it all — cute dogs, a charmingly-drawn New York City, and a great story and message. I was lucky enough to get an advance copy and I just bought some more for my friends with young kids.
5 star review amazon
“Murray Goes to the Playground” is a joy to read. It’s not only a story about a dog going out to play, it’s a reminder that stepping into new things takes courage, and that kindness & friendship make the big moments better.
It has something special for both kids and the adults reading with them. If you like stories that warm the heart, make you smile, and leave you feeling hopeful, this book is perfect.
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What a great story. So much fun to read over and over. Beautiful story and illustrations.
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What a wonderful and delightful book! This is great story with some great lessons for all who are looking for the true meaning of life and friendships. It reminds me of the many times I travel with my Labs to our local dog parks, allowing me to marvel at how these trips teaches me and others how to develop great interactions and potential friendships. Highly recommended and truly enjoyable!
5 star review amazon
My daughter thought this book was so cute! Families and kiddos who love dogs will want to run right to the playground with Murray. Also love that this book was based on a real dog! A total winner!
5 star review amazon
Murray’s story is simple, but so important. Everyone wants a friend and to be a friend. Sometimes you have to keep looking and not give up until you find the friend who is right for you. I am looking forward to more adventures with Murray and the Lady. Keep wagging your big tail Murray!
5 star review amazon
“Murray Goes to the Playground” is a fun children’s book that captures the excitement of outdoor adventures. The story is charming and easy to follow, with colorful illustrations that engage young readers. It encourages imagination and the joy of exploration, making it a wonderful addition to any child’s library. It blends fun with subtle lessons about friendship and safety.
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My son laughed at Murray’s silly antics and really related to the idea of making new friends. He’s older than the demographic but the theme is universal.
5 star review amazon
Destined to become a classroom staple and bedtime story favorite! Everyone deserves unique, genuine, caring friends like Murray. This impactful story reminds us of the power of kindness, the importance of inclusivity, and the gift of friendship. Ten out of ten for fabulous illustrations and inspiring content!
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Great Book for Young Kids
I read this with my friend’s son, and he loved it. The dog park setting is such a fun idea and he definitely related to the trials and tribulations of making friends. Who doesn’t?!
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Love this!!! The kind of book that every kid should have on their bookshelf. Warm, funny and reassuring!
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Adorable story about a real life dog. Beautiful message about finding friendship and great illustration!!
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A sweet tale (and tail) and message for kids and parents alike! We’re all a little bit Murray at times…
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I loved reading this! Its simple but critical lesson of needing friends and finding them when you least expect is great — for Murray, other dogs, younger children, and even adults 🤩. Plus the illustrations are wonderful.
5 star review amazon
Beautifully illustrated with a timeless message. A book we’ll treasure for years. My little guys LOVE it!
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Murray is such a relatable character for kids navigating friendships and it actually applies to both kids and adults. Highly recommend ideally for ages 4–8.
5 star review amazon
Wonderful story and illustrations!
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Great book!

This book is adorable! The illustrations are beautiful and the story is absolutely charming. It’s a great lesson for kids around perseverance and navigating social situations. 100% recommend!

Great story that kids can relate to. The illustrations are wonderful.
5 star review amazon

MUST HAVE BOOK for ALL children! Great gift!!

This is a beautiful book written so well! It is easy to follow and fun to see what Murray is doing! My grandchildren love it and cannot wait for the next Murray book!!

5 star review amazon

Heartwarming story – engaging illustrations

This is a delightful story about a dog learning the ups and downs of making friends. The beautiful, engaging illustrations immediately drew our grandson into the book and kept his attention.
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A charming book about a dog and friendship

What a wonderful book for kids who are navigating friendships. And the illustrations are spectacular!
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Great life lessons for young and old. Beautiful illustrations. Looking forward to more Murray adventures.
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Beautiful message and illustrations for all ages!
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An adorable book that any dog loving family would appreciate!
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My nieces and nephews loved it! Also, this book is as enjoyable for adults as it is for children. A true modern classic.
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What a wonderful book! So excited for my niece to read it for her little one! Murray can help all of us remember the challenges of building relationships and help our little one navigate a little easier!❤️
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