HarperCollins Publishers India brings together four much-loved stories in The Big Book of Gopi Stories, a charming collection by bestselling author Sudha Murty. Told through the gentle, observant gaze of Gopi—a dog with a big heart and quiet wisdom—the book captures everyday life in its simplest, warmest form.

Written in Sudha Murty’s unmistakable, empathetic style, these stories remind readers—young and old—why pets become such an inseparable part of our lives. Through Gopi’s innocence, loyalty, and unconditional love, the book celebrates family, kindness, and the beauty of small moments that often go unnoticed.

A Life Told in Four Stories

The collection traces Gopi’s journey across four distinct stages of life, each story adding a new layer to his world.

In Coming Home, readers meet Gopi as a tiny pup welcomed into his new family. From being greeted with aarti and tilak to learning the rhythms of household life, Gopi quickly understands that home is more than a place—it is a feeling. The story gently explores belonging, trust, and the comfort of being loved.

Finding Love introduces a more confident and playful Gopi. Stronger, cheekier, and endlessly curious, he encounters new situations, new dogs, and small challenges that broaden his understanding of the world. The tone is light, warm, and filled with quiet lessons.

In Growing Up, Gopi matures and discovers fresh adventures. The arrival of Nova brings companionship and change, shaping the beginnings of a new family dynamic. The story reflects growth—not just in age, but in emotional understanding.

The collection concludes with Gopi’s Day Out, a moving tale that begins when Gopi gets lost. Away from the safety of home, he befriends a street dog and experiences a city that is harsh yet kind, unfamiliar yet full of compassion. It is a story that stays with the reader long after it ends.

More Than Just a Pet Story

At its heart, this book is not only about a dog—it is about growing up, loving deeply, and learning to see the world with empathy. Gopi observes humans with a quiet wisdom that often reveals more about us than about him.

Sudha Murty’s decision to name Gopi like a family member—Gopesh, Gopinath—rather than a typical pet name subtly reinforces a powerful idea: pets are not accessories, but family.

Reading It With Children

This book works beautifully as a shared reading experience. I read Coming Home to my young daughter, who may not yet grasp every word but delighted in the illustrations and emotions. For children who feel unsure or scared of dogs, Gopi’s story gently reassures them that animals can be loving, dependable companions.

The narrative also offers an important message for young readers eager to have a pet—it shows that a dog is not just a playmate, but a responsibility that requires patience, care, and commitment.

The inclusion of real photographs of Gopi towards the end adds a warm, realistic touch that deepens the connection.

What Works, What Could Be Better

What works:

• Simple, child-friendly language
• Emotional warmth and sincerity
• A unique dog’s-eye perspective
• Subtle lessons about responsibility and empathy

Sweet, comforting, and quietly meaningful, The Big Book of Gopi Stories is the kind of book that feels like a warm hug. It may awaken memories for some readers and inspire others to welcome a furry friend into their lives.

Sometimes, all you really need is a gentle little book about a dog—and this one delivers exactly that. 🐾