/squirlco/images/Squirl_logo_registeredTM.png){kind=logo}
Get the App
Discover the author’s favorite real world setting from her children's book.
The Spot: Leaside, Toronto, Canada
"Hi Nacho! We’re not dogs; we’re geese! We have feathers and webbed feet to help us swim and paddle through water. We usually fly south for the winter. Have a nice walk! Nacho says goodbye to the geese and continues on his way. Nacho waits for the crosswalk to turn green and crosses the street. He sees grass up ahead and spots a friend at the bottom of a tree."
From What Kind of Dog are You?
In What Kind of Dog Are You?, Nacho sets out on a morning walk hoping to meet new doggy friends. He greets each of the neighbourhood’s creatures with the same curious question: “What kind of dog are you?” Along the way, he discovers that not everyone is a dog like him.
The story was inspired by author Elena McBride’s real-life American bulldog and their walks through Leaside, a leafy neighbourhood in Toronto’s east end. Written by McBride and illustrated by Blake Marsee, this playful picture book celebrates curiosity, friendship, and the discoveries waiting just beyond your front door.
Squirl: What makes Leaside such a special place for Nacho's story?
Author: I was born and raised in Toronto, and Leaside is a beautiful neighbourhood with a wonderful sense of community. Located in the city’s east end, it is filled with greenery, trails, parks, and local businesses. Nacho loves exploring the neighbourhood on our walks because there is always something new to see. With its animals, green spaces, and friendly atmosphere, every walk feels like a little adventure. It truly is the perfect neighbourhood for us.
Squirl: What are some of your favorite local stops?
Author: At the end of our street, there is a beautiful local bakery with delicious treats and the best coffee. Bayview Avenue also has some of my favorite restaurants. One of them is Ramona’s, which has the best all-day breakfast.
Squirl: Does the real Nacho have a favorite place in Leaside?
Author: Nacho loves to frequent the Home Depot that’s just around the corner from us. It’s one of his favorite neighbourhood stops!
Squirl: What do you hope readers feel as they explore Leaside with Nacho?
Author: I hope they see how much fun can be found during a simple walk through their own neighbourhood. There are new friends, interesting animals, and little discoveries everywhere. Leaside is truly the most amazing neighbourhood, and I’m so happy to share a piece of it through Nacho’s story.
Discover settings from What Kind of Dog are You? on Squirl 📍📚
