Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop by Karl Riemensperger ~ 5✨Children's Book Review plus Bonus Discussion Questions
Quick Summary:
In Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop, the fifth installment of Karl Riemensperger's Gunner Goes series, readers follow the loyal and playful 4-year-old Black Labrador mix, Gunner, as he faces the challenge of being separated from his boy on the first day of school.
Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop by Karl Riemensperger ~ Children's Book Review, first day of school, a dog's life, discussion questions
Book Details
Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop By Karl Riemensperger
Series: Gunner Goes #5
Published by Independently Published on April 11, 2025
Genres: Children's Picture Book, Pets, Family Life
Formats: eBook, Hardcover, Paperback
Pages: 32
Gunner is a loyal and playful 5 year-old Black Labrador mix that finds himself worrying about being separated from his boy as he spends his first day away at school. Follow Gunner’s day as he attempts to fill the time between morning and afternoon bus stop visits with activities and dreams. Gunner might find that there wasn't much to worry about and that he can manage being by himself sometimes.
In the fifth book of a series, this story demonstrates how a dog might react to being left alone for a day without his favorite human but how quickly he forgets once they are reunited. Things may not have been as bad as he thought and he will be better prepared for next time.
There are many adventures yet to be had in the Gunner Goes series!
Source: Kindle Unlimited
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Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop is a continuation of the delightful "Gunner Goes" series of books.
Read my review of the first four books in the series HERE!
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Purchase Links for Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop
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My Thoughts on Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop
A Comforting Tale for First-Day Nerves and Faithful Friends
If you’ve ever had to say goodbye at the bus stop, whether you’re the child or the parent, you know that sometimes, that short walk feels like the longest journey of all. In Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop, the fifth book in Karl Riemensperger’s delightful Gunner Goes series, we experience that moment from the perspective of Gunner, a rescue pup with a big heart and an even bigger attachment to his boy.
The story is beautifully illustrated by Oscar Feliz and Antonisa Scott, who capture the emotional ups and downs of the first day of school in this heartfelt picture book about dogs and kids. But instead of focusing on the child’s jitters, we see things through Gunner's eyes. He doesn’t quite know what to do with himself once his best friend disappears onto the big yellow bus. He walks him to the stop like a pro, but the walk home? Not so easy.
I think the magic of this book lies in its warmth and humor, as Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop opens the door to deeper themes, such as separation anxiety, patience, and the comfort of routine. Young readers will relate to the idea of missing someone and trying to stay brave throughout the day. Parents and caregivers will appreciate how it models emotional resilience and may even find it helpful as a read-aloud tool during those tough morning drop-offs.
For rescue pet families, this book adds another layer of connection. Gunner’s loyalty and emotional sensitivity feel so true to life for anyone who’s ever loved a shelter animal. His feelings are big and sincere, yet childlike in their simplicity. Gunner helps teach patience, how to trust that goodbyes aren't forever, and how to find comfort in the daily rhythms of life.
The pacing is just right for early elementary readers or as a gentle read-aloud book for preschool and kindergarten children learning about morning routines. The simple language invites young listeners to engage, empathize, and perhaps even discuss their own experiences with change or school-day routines.
This heartwarming children’s picture book is also a perfect resource for:
- Talking about first-day-of-school jitters
- Celebrating the bond between children and their pets
- Discussing patience, routines, and emotional growth
- Introducing or honoring rescued animals in family life
- Comforting little ones who struggle with separation anxiety
Final Thoughts:
Gunner Goes to the Bus Stop is a heartwarming, tail-wagging tale about love, loyalty, and the courage it takes to wait for the people we care about. It’s the perfect read for kids who are starting school, missing a loved one, or just need reassurance that even the longest days end with a familiar face waiting at the door. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or dog lover, Gunner’s story will leave paw prints on your heart. 🐾
I read this book through my Kindle Unlimited subscription. This review represents my honest and unbiased opinion.
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I love my Amazon Kindle Unlimited Subscription. So many books, so little time!
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From first-time author, Karl Riemensperger, comes Gunner Gets Lucky! Karl is a U.S. Marine veteran married to his wife Karen since 2009. Together, they have shared a special love for the Labrador Retriever breed, and often volunteer their home as respite for dogs needing help finding a home. Their daily lives and adventures with Gunner are the inspiration for the books. Gunner was special, quickly bonded with their young son, Kaiden, and they wanted to share his story with the world while also supporting rescues who are often in very dire financial straits. Karl quickly got to work writing the first of the series, but the stories didn’t stop there and before they knew it, one book became four and more! Having raised five children, Karl considers himself an expert in reading bedtime stories to children, with lots of practice over the years. Karl wrote the books in this series while thinking of the kind of books he enjoyed reading to his children and with the humor of the child and parent in mind.About Karl Riemensperger
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Discussion Questions for Kids and Grown-Ups
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How do you think Gunner feels when his boy gets on the bus?
What clues from the story or pictures helped you decide? -
Have you ever missed someone like Gunner misses his boy?
What did you do while you waited? -
What makes Gunner a good friend?
Can you think of a time your pet (or someone else's) helped you feel better? -
Why do you think routines, like walking to the bus stop, are important for Gunner and his boy?
What’s your favorite part of your morning routine? -
If you could spend a day with Gunner, what would you do together?
Draw or describe your perfect day with a pup!
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