Mr. Brown, Sadie, and Me

This book is a conversation starter for every family of a 7-9 year old. Brian meets an elderly man and has lots of fears about him. He discovers many attributes that make him unique and they become friends. Brian also gains some independence in walking in his neighborhood in safe ways. He teaches himself to pick up dog waste with out touching it. It can be a good read aloud together or be read independently Every family needs this in their library.
A follow up book, called "Now it's Sadie and Me" digs deep into what a child goes through when encountering death for the first time. Be looking for it.