Book Description

Reviews (12)

Humorous and Witty
It is another Dav Pilkey winner! This book approaches the topic of bad breath with great wit. The puns help children to understanding cliches and improving their reading skills.
My four year old son loves the book! He thinks it is hysterical that this cute dog is named Hally Tosis-meaning bad breath. This was a good vocabulary building book for my son. The illustrations alone help children in understanding the book!

A very funny book about bad breath!
Hally Tosis is a little dog with a great big problem, fantastically bad breath. The Tosis children take her to "breathtaking" sites and on adventures guaranteed to "take your breath away," but nothing helps. In the end, it's up to Hally herself to show the family how wonderfully useful her bad breath can be.

The storyline of this book is quite humorous, and the artwork is doubly so. My first grader found this book very easy to read, perhaps too easy, but he enjoyed it immensely.

King of the stinky dogs
Dav Pilkey's Dog Breath! has a witty story, amusing puns, and indispensable artwork that makes this book both comic and clever.

4 ½* Tongue Wags the Dog
The pleasingly familiar illustrations and comic sensibilities (i.e., silly, punny, off-hand) of famed children's writer Dav Pilkey are evident from the first line (and its accompanying illustration): "There once was a dog named Haley, who lived with the Tosis family." (Get it--Haley Tosis?). This dog is so smelly that Mona Lisa holds her nose, a skunk tries to hide, and Grandma Tosis faints after Haley gets in her face. After this, there are some typical Pilkey puns and visual humor as the family kids try to clean up her act.

After Haley saves her human family from some burglars, she becomes "the most famous crime-fighting dog in the country." The last page is quintessential Pilkey: The Tosis family, clothespins pinching their noses, gathers around Haley in an overstuffed chair, happy to keep their dog "Because life without Haley Tosis just wouldn't make any scents." Although the book has other such puns and clever pictures, it's mostly for younger kids. Pilkey really reaches his zenith in the "Captain Underpants" series, which features humor that is both more outrageous and layered. There's more fun and irreverence in those books, but this is a good introduction to Pilkey for the younger set.

A great book for kids of all ages
My neighbor's young son gave me this book a few years back. He'd lovingly changed Hally Tosis' name to my dog's name! ha ha. We love the book and treasure it. The illustrations are precious, the message is right on target and of course the ending is happy! What more could one ask. ... Read more

Amazon.com

From the beloved author of the Newbery Medal-winning title A Wrinkle in Time comes acharming story for younger readers, especially those with a new sibling. ToucheL'Engle-Franklin, the very talented, sophisticated, and articulate poodle of thehouse, is shocked and dismayed when her master and mistress bring home anotherdog, especially such an odd-looking one. This interloper has no fur to speak of,no tail, and--horror of horrors--it does its business inside the house, insomething called a diaper. Touche doesn't know what to make of this strange turnof events--after all, as she says, "This was a great waste of money. Dogs areexpensive to feed and clothe, and one dog is enough for any family. I fail tosee why I did not satisfy all requirements." Gradually, though, althoughshe still considers the addition to the family an inferior breed, Touche beginsto warm to "Jo-dog," and ultimately determines that "in every home there shouldbe at least two dogs!"

Funny, touching, and original, this oversize picture book is just the ticket fordisgruntled siblings. Precocious pooch Touche expresses her feelings toward thenew baby in the household in a way that any child can relate to and every adultwill recognize, and Christine Davenier's watercolor-and-ink illustrations havethe nostalgic feel of Ludwig Bemelmans's Madeline books. (Ages 3 to 7)--Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (8)

Could have been written by my dog!
This is an endearing, funny book that I would recommend to any families with dogs that are expecting children for the first time, or are introducing dogs to a toddler. My dog seems to feel the exact same way (at least I think so!) as the narrator dog of this book. Very cute and I will be surprised if this doesn't become a classic!

The Other Dog
Author: Christine Davenier

This book is basically about a dog who lives in a nice home. During the summer the dog's owner had a baby and the dog was really mad because she wanted to be the center of attention. She was lonely and everyone was busy with the baby. The dog didn't get to have any fun with its owner. The dog is narrating the story and telling us what a wonderful dog she is. At first, the dog thinks the baby was another dog. The dog was really trying to get along with the baby but the owners didn't let her because they might think that the dog might bite the baby. The baby always makes the dog mad because the baby pulls her ears all the time. Finally the baby was beginning to get along with the dog and the dog seems to be getting to know this baby.
I think that parents should read this to their children because this is a wonderful book that could teach children how to behave with pets. This book is really creative because the dog was narrating and I think that the kids will enjoy the book because the dog was mostly the interesting part in the story. I think kids will love to read this over and over.

A classic voice, like Charlotte of Charlotte's Web!
This story is told from the point of view of Touche, the dog, and what a marvelous dog Touche is! His attentive and amusing observations of "the other dog" range from "the other dog's" missing tail, lack of ventures outside for potty-time, sleeping arrangements, growth spurts, and "the other dog's" reaction to him, Touche (which is very satisfying to Touche). Touche's warm, intelligent, fun-loving and witty voice and the expressive illustrations that showed him at the peak of his interaction with "the other dog" made me a long-lasting and faithful friend.

Great for an Older Sibling of a New Baby
I have been a fan of Madeleine L'Engle since I first ran across A Wrinkle in Time in my grade school many years ago now. Since then, I have read just about every book she has written and I have never been disappointed. L'Engle is one of the most consistent writers of high quality books that is out there.

I'm a little past the age of the target audience for this book but it is a fun little book that older siblings of new babies are sure to enjoy. This was in my mind as my brother and his wife had their second child a few weeks ago. In this book, the family dog has to deal with feelings of jealously at the arrival of a new baby in the house. It is a cute and humorous little story told from the dog's point of view. If you need a gift so that an older sibling doesn't feel left out when the new baby arrives, this is a good choice.

Humorous View of a New Sibling for Preschoolers
On the surface, this story is about a spoiled dog's reaction to a first human baby coming home. The story is told in first dog, with Touche L'Engle-Franklin speaking as narrator. That perspective will provide much surface humor. Underneath that story line is the concept of the adjustments that siblings must make when the second child arrives. At first there is a sense of being displaced, then superiority over the pitiful creature follows, and finally love and connection arrive. The book is improved by an extensive author's note at the end about how the story is based on real-life experiences in her family. The book's main weakness is that it should have had simpler vocabulary so that it could have been used with the younger children who are about to meet their first sibling. You can still do that, but will have to rewrite or paraphrase the text so that the story will be completely understandable.

The writing is quite humorous. "First of all, I think you should know that I am the one who wrote this book." "So, I -- Touche L'Engle-Franklin -- write this book, with the assistance of that inferior canine Jo [the baby]."

"This summer my mistress went away for several days . . . she brought with her another dog." "I fail to see why I did not satisfy all requirements."

The humor builds on the drawbacks of human babies -- they have to be carried, they need diapers (and those have to be changed!), they must be fed several times a day, and they are almost hairless and wear clothes.

Over time, Touche takes over watching Jo in the playpen, as they play together through the bars.

" . . . [I] come to the

unpredictable,

surprising,

amazing,

astonishing,

astounding conclusion:

in every home there should be at least two dogs!"

The book ends with a painted grey paw print.

Ms. Davenier's images are cheerful watercolors that feel like they might have been made sometime between the 1930s and 1950s. This gives the book a feeling of heritage and elegance. The details are inked in with soaring spirals that add motion to the images, often showing Touche dancing all around the room over a large two page spread.

Reading this book reminded me of our dog's reaction when our oldest came home from the hospital. Skipper, our Sheltie, looked definitely puzzled, but was very interested. Soon, he was patiently letting "the new dog" pull his hair (as long as it wasn't too hard). They became very close companions, and it was a great pleasure to watch them play together. I don't think I would have remembered that experience again except for reading this book.

You might also want to encourage your child to address what it might be like to view a new baby in the family from other perspectives. How will the cat who lives next door think about the new baby? In this way, you can make the introduction more comfortable. The best time to do this is while the family is pregnant. Obviously, you also need to train any pets you have to behave around your baby. I remember reading good books on this subject, but don't remember their names at the moment.

Be patient with all new dogs . . . and the old dogs and children who will eye them suspiciously! ... Read more

Amazon.com

Poor Gracie. All this little pooch wanted was a quiet house, with "thekitty sleeping on the windowsill, the big dog sleeping on the couch, the quietfish going ploop-ploop." But then one day the painters came. In a "big,noisy truck," with "clangy ladders and big-person voices." Clearly, there wasonly one solution: "She barked and barked and told them to go outside. But doyou know what? Gracie was put outside!"

And so begins the Great Gracie Chase, as this otherwise obedient little pup goesfrom miffed to mischievous, leading everyone from the paperboy to the deliverywoman to the painters themselves on a town-wide caper, in search of the onething she wants most--a little peace and quiet.

As a proven master of the cute but not cloying, Cynthia Rylant (author andillustrator of Dog Heavenand Cat Heaven) sets afun pace for little Gracie Rose (also the name of her real-life dog). But thereal winner in Chase is rascally illustrator Mark Teague, who infuses witand bounce into subject matter that's decidedly more mundane than in some of hisother work (How Do Dinosaurs SayGoodnight?, The Lost andFound). (Ages 4 to 8) Paul Hughes ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Cute story, wonderful illustrations
I love the illustrations of Mark Teague, they are just wonderful. We like this book because Gracie reminds us of our own little round dog. My 4 year old and I read this so often I think he's starting to memorize it. Very cute.

Our Gracie Review
Gracie was a really cool dog. She was a very helpful dog. She liked quiet but it got noisy in her house and she did not like the noise.
We liked this book because it has good colors and details. Gracie is funny.

Fun!
This book reminds grown-ups just how much fun it can be to read picture books. It is a silly, quick-moving, adorable little story that every toddler I know loves. Mark Teague's genius really carries the simple tale in a delightful way. After all, if you are a pre or emergent reader you can't help but adore his plump, colorful images. Especially good, and worthy of a spot on your already crowded personal book shelf.

The Day Gracie Got Away.....
Gracie is a good little dog who likes a nice quiet house. She never caused a bit of trouble until the day the painters came. The painters drove up in their noisy truck, yelling back and forth to each other, dragging furniture and clanging ladders and Gracie began to bark. She barked and barked, but the painters wouldn't leave. Instead, they put her outside, so that she wouldn't disturb THEM. Gracie saw the open gate and decided to take a little walk all by herself. She had just set off down the street, when she heard someone shout, "Where's Gracie?" and that's when the Great Gracie Chase began..... Cynthia Rylant has written a delightful and vivid story that's full of energy and magic. Her easy to read text is complemented by Mark Teague's bold, bright and expressive artwork that pulls you into the story and let's you join the chase. With each page, the chaos grows larger and busier, until it almost spills off the page. Together, they've authored a charming and humorous book that's perfect for youngsters 3-7. The Great Gracie Chase is a winner and a wonderful addition to all home bookshelves.

Illustrations are wonderful...story is not
I'm a dog-lover and enjoy almost any book about dogs, but this story sounds as if it was written by a second-grade student. The sentences run on and on and on, and the reader is left feeling as if there was no real ending...the story just seems to stop. I've read most of Cindy Rylant's books and have enjoyed many of them, but I must say that I felt sorry for Mark Teague having to illustrate a book that lacked so much. A real disappointmet. ... Read more

Book Description

With his new spy kit and his faithful sidekick Mudge, Henry is ready to look for clues, steal secrets, and flirt with danger. One of the first things Henry and Mudge find is a coded message -- could there be another spy in the neighborhood? ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Adorable and fun!
Henry buys a spy kit. He and his dog, Mudge, canvas the neighborhood to "flirt with danger" and "steal secrets". One day Henry finds a secret code and is determined to crack it. Funny, adorable, irresistable Mudge is a favorite at house! He can even get my reluctant reader eager to see what happens next. Easy reading level with short chapters gives the hesitant reader a real sense of accomplishment. ... Read more

Book Description

When Pete was a young boy, a tornado struck his family farm, and brought with it a doghouse 'complete with a dog inside! Now another twister is on its way, and as a new family of farmers takes shelter from the howling winds, Pete passes the time with story after story about the amazing dog named Tornado. By the time the last story is told, the storm has passed'and Tornado has brought joy to anoher generation of farmers.
‘An excellent book to read aloud, and dog lovers of any age will find it irresistible.''ALA Booklist.

00-01 Minnesota's Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award Masterlist

00 Natn'l Christian School Assoc. Children's Crown Classic Award

Amazon.com

You would not believe the things this dog Pete puts in his stomach. Anaccordion, for starters. Then an eggbeater, a glue stick, Mrs. Parsley's pinkpocketbook, and cousin Rocky's underpants. ("Uggh!") Pete's faithful mistress,Poppy Wise, is at her wit's end. And yet, she can't help loving that dog.("Quite a lot.") So, from A to Z (in a loose, meandering way), Poppy inventoriesher insatiable pooch's intake, with loads of parenthetical asides, wittycommentary, and an unforgettable cast of characters. Maira Kalman, zany andtalented source of Next StopGrand Central, Ooh-la-la(Max in Love), and other exquisitely quirky picture books, uses thealphabet as a framework for what is truly an ode to a well-loved ifincorrigible--dog. Her spectacularly rich gouache paintings are just the thingto illustrate this linguistic playpen. Read this one aloud—-kids and adultsalike will sit enthralled. (All ages) --Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Reviews (3)

What Pete Ate from A to Z
What Pete ate from A to Z was about little dog that liked to eat many things he shouldn't. Each time they tell you about a new thing he ate it starts with the next letter of the alphabet. Sometimes when they told you the thing he ate they would also tell you a little about what he was eating. Finally at the end of the book you find out the one thing Pete won't eat, but I'll let you find that out for yourselves. This book teaches kids about the Alphabet and also what things might be edible and what things are not edible, Morocco, the continent of Africa, what you do with money, and not to take other peoples things without asking them first. I recommend this book because it not only teaches you about the alphabet but about also about things that start with those letters. This book would be good for kids around the age of 3-5 yeas old.

AS GOOD AS ALL HER OTHERS - WHICH IS GREAT!
Maira Kalman does it again. She has written a book that I (as a godmother) love to read over and over to my god-daughter who loves to hear it again and again. Everytime we read it, we find something new to say about it and talk about. This writer is so original and charming and even, sophisticated. Her style is very conversational and really creative. She is a perfect companion to see the world with... New York's Grand Central Station, India, Paris and even Hollywood (from her Max series). The children that I read this book to respond to her curious and playful nature. She doesn't pander to kids but challenges them and invites them into her original and artistic world.

The Amazing, Alphabetical Pete....
Meet Poppy Wise and her dog Pete. When it comes to eating, Pete is far from discriminating. If fact, he'll eat just about anything. So Poppy begins at the beginning with the letter A and chronicles exactly what this ever-hungry canine has gotten into. Moving letter by letter this includes Cousin Rocky's Accordion...All of it, a Camera, an Eggbeater, a Fez, and her brother's magic Key. At the Lucky dog show he ate all the Leashes which Let Loose all the dogs. A bit later he ate Mrs Parlsey's Pink Pocketbook, a Stinky Sneaker, Cousin Rocky's Underpants (Uggh!), and a Yo-yo. And as Poppy finally tells us, the only thing Pete won't eat is Zug Zug Dog Grub..... Maira Kalman has written a charming and hilarious walk through the alphabet that's full of unforgettable characters, wordplay, irreverent commentary, and witty asides. Both kids and adults will smile, giggle and eventually laugh out loud at the antics of four legged eating machine. Her delightful and energetic text is told in an easy to read, conversational style, and complemented by bold, bright and busy child-like artwork. Youngsters will enjoy poring over the pictures and finding all the silly details on each page. Perfect for kids 4-8, What Pete Ate From A-Z is a special, joyous romp, that makes a terrific gift, and is a wonderful addition to all home bookshelves. ... Read more

Book Description

Dr. dog is not your usual doctor. For one thing, he makes house calls. For another, he's a pet beagle! When his entire family falls sick, only Dr. Dog can save the day, with cure for head lice, pinworms, and (yikes!) even a case of too much gas... ... Read more

Reviews (13)

Helpless laughter
I recently read Dr Dog to my 6 year old in a book shop. We were so helpless with laughter that another customer came up and said," Whatever it is, I have to buy it!" In the end we each bought two copies. I sent one to my father for Fathers Day. It is the most hilarious book children could possibly read about personal hygiene and bad habits. If you are at all stuffy, forget it and find something else. For children and parents alike it is very funny and very rude. My kids love it and I am just about to order a new copy from Amazon as requested by my mother-in-law.

Pediatric office staff howled with delight at Dr. Dog
I recently became acquainted with Dr.Dog, the drawing caught my eye because he looked like one of my dogs. My husband, who is a pediatrician, loved the book. We recently read it to our office staff at the end of our annual mandatory OSHA meeting. There was plenty of useful health advice in Dr.Dog, and the staff appreciated something so funny (and gross) not unlike many of our patients. Our office manager planned to get a copy to read (to the adults) at her two year olds birthday party! What a fun book!

dr.dog rocks!!
dr.dog is a very good book and who ever likes a funny book once in a while you should read or even buy the book. If you buy this book you'll never stop laughing at the funny things that happen to the Gumboyles. It's all up to dr.dog to save his family. I myself enjoy reading this book again and again. I hope you enjoy reading dr.dog and learn a lesson about the germs and how they affect our body. Enjoy.

laughed my bum off
i came across this in a used book store in colorado springs and started laughing so hard that by the time i was done i was holding on to the shelf it was on so i could stand up. i don't know that it was necessarily hygenically beneficial to me, but good heavens it was funny!

Things That Everyone Needs to Know
Dr. Dog is the story of a very smart dog and a rather disreputable (but loving) family and how they always call on Dr. Dog to solve their little health problems. It's a wonderful book, funny with good lessons for those of any age. You will laugh while learning good habits ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Oooooooooh! One of our favorite books!
I bought this book when my daughter was not yet born. I started to read to her when she was three months old. I sit her on my lap and let her rest against my body while I hold the book infront of her to read.
She is now 5 1/2 months old and this is one of her favorite books. She gets very excited when I pick this one off the shelf. While I read it she grabs for the book and her legs kick and kick while she smiles.
The book is a really sweet story about a mommy dog and her "snuggle puppy". While making cookies she sings him a song about loving him for who he is and what he does. Its short and very very sweet.
The book is based on a song but I dont know the song and I dont think it matters. The words are so important to giving your child good self confidence. I think when they are old enough to understand what you are saying it will be even better for them.
This is a cute book and it doesnt get old. I love to "sing" my daughter the snuggle puppy song where ever we might be and she loves it.

Predicatable and wonderful
My son loves anticipating the words and the kisses. I don't know the tune, so we do it as a chant, and it's wonderful. He screams with laughter anticipating the next words. Tonight we read it 3 times and he took it to bed.

An appetizer on the Boynton buffet
This, like all the Boynton books I've seen, is a beautiful little package -- a sweet song and adorable pictures, sure to result in much snuggling and special moments. It is great for little kids, especially (in fact this song has become a bedtime standard for us). However, if you and your kids like this book, be sure to check out Sandra Boynton's full "Philadelphia Chickens" collection -- a Broadway-show type "review" of many fantastic and catchy toons, with great illustrations and a CD (featuring Patti LuPone, Meryl Streep, The Bacon Brothers, etc.). My kids (3 & 8) have loads of fun singing the songs, dancing around like aardvarks in a chorus line, acting snoozy and then rock and rolling. My 8 year old daughter loves "Broadway" type of music, but much of it is pretty grown-up in content, so this is just the ticket. The songs are funny and appeal to both kids and adults. Sorry, I'm not saying more specifically about Snuggle Puppy, but the whole collection is a treasure for kids as they get older.

Excellent Book
Our whole family loves this book - my 3 year old sings the song to her 1 year old sister. The book is short, and very sweet.

A must-have!
Our whole family adores this book. It's infectious; for one little book it packs a whallop. The book is a love song, and we sing it as a bluegrass song. One reading keeps us smiling for a whole day. Until I find a new favorite, this is the book I will buy (along with Blue Hat, Green Hat) for all of the new babies I know. Everything about it is especially fine. ... Read more

Book Description

On a hot, hot day a good old dog just has to get some relief! Around thesteamy country lanes he sniffs and searches until he finds: a chauffeur washing a shiny car, abaker scrubbing some sticky pans, and a florist spraying a pink bouquet. They’re all getting ready for a country wedding and this overheated pup just wants to plunge into the fun—and water!But will the wedding party in their fancy finery welcome this gotta-becool pooch? Zany characters, zingy lines, and high-spirited scenes practically bounce off the pages of thiswitty and affectionate story by debut author Elise Broach and New York Times Best IllustratedBooks Award winner David Catrow. ... Read more

Book Description

While visiting his sister in town, Hank contracts a mysterious case of "soap hydrophobia"--and ends up in the dog pound!

USA Today calls the hilarious Hank the Cowdog series "...the best family entertainment in years."

Hank is a scruffy, smart-alecky supersleuth with a nose for danger and an eye for the ladies. And as Head of Ranch Security on a West Texas ranch, he's usually up to his ears in all kinds of amusing trouble. Whether he's called upon to bark up the sun, investigate suspicious goings-on, or defend the ranch against marauders, Hank's hilarious, hair-raising adventures will delight readers young and old alike.

"Rip-roaring fun...[a] marvelous situation comedy." --School Library Journal ... Read more

Reviews (5)

Hank the cowdog is a great book
Hank The Cowdog it's a dogs life is a funny book. Drover
tells Hank it's the end of the world
but when Hank gets the calendar he finds
out that it's not the end of the world
it's really the end of the clearance sale
so he was tricked by a cat. I give
Hank the Cowdog five stars

Hank The Cowdog it's a dogs life is a funny book. Drover
tells Hank it's the end of the world
but when Hank gets the calendar he finds
out that it's not the end of the world
it's really the end of the clearance sale
so he was tricked by a cat. I give
Hank the Cowdog five stars

One of the best books
This is an interesting experience about how Hank (head of ranch security) leaves and goes to the town to visit his sister Maggie. She tricks him into eating an ivory bar of soap. Then he gets caught by the dog pound and they think he has hydrophobia. However, Hank manages to break out.

good book
This is the halarios story when Hank goes uptown to visit his siter Maggie. whiel teaching Maggie's pups,Spot Roscoe Barbra and April who to be a cowdog he ends up in the pound!!he also has interesting adventures such as" the ivory dog bar".

It's an awesome book!
I'ts a Dog's Life is an interestingbook about the end of the world and thigs that Hank messes up. Also about how along the way he enters ordeals with Pete the cat, who informs them of some very disturbing news. How he involves his sister and teaches his neices and nephews how to deal with cats. It's a funny and interesting book about well... a "Dog's Life" You can be sure that I would recomend this book and that people who have one of those ego's where they think they're better than that than oh well! Your loss!

Hank The cow dog is a funy book about a dog
This book is about a dog called Hank. He goes on these crazy missions. For example, he has this mission where he tries to get the steaks from the kitchen. ... Read more

Book Description

Henry and his 180-pound dog Mudge are best friends forever. And in this eighth book of their adventures, they make friends with a scruffy but lovable cat. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

We love Mudge!
These funny, easy to read chapter books are a favorite in our house. Henry and his drooling dog, Mudge are the best of friends and love one another tremendously. In this story, Henry and Mudge learn to love a bedraggled cat that looks like "mushed prunes". The illustrations add to the humor of the story. ... Read more

Book Description

As the proud owner of a Priceless Corncob, Hank knows that being rich can change your life. But does it mean giving up his position as Head of Ranch Security?

USA Today calls the hilarious Hank the Cowdog series "...the best family entertainment in years."

Hank is a scruffy, smart-alecky supersleuth with a nose for danger and an eye for the ladies. And as Head of Ranch Security on a West Texas ranch, he's usually up to his ears in all kinds of amusing trouble. Whether he's called upon to bark up the sun, investigate suspicious goings-on, or defend the ranch against marauders, Hank's hilarious, hair-raising adventures will delight readers young and old alike.

"Rip-roaring fun...[a] marvelous situation comedy." --School Library Journal ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Heh heh, I can't help but love these Hank books...
I highly reccomend the Hank the Cowdog books if you're a dog lover, or if you just enjoy good, clean humor and fun! The books
are written in Hank's perspective, which, I think, makes them funnier than if they weren't written in his persppective. He tries to talk "intelligent," but really he is actually quite, um,
well, to be to-the-point... DUMB. And Hank's conversations with Drover are priceless. If you don't have this book, you really should get it.

Hilarious fun
I read this book about two years ago for the first time and have reread it since. I really enjoy John R. Ericson's writings and he has a good personality, too. If you or your child like Hank the Cowdog, this is probably one of the best of them all. Email me if you want at sgooch@anet-dfw.com and tell me if this review helped you. Love ya! ... Read more

Amazon.com

When Alfred, a supposedly unlovable pug (or so the cat tells him) meetsa new neighbor dog through the solid fence, he can't help himself: "My name isAlfred," he says. "I'm a golden retriever." As long as he can keep the fencebetween himself and Rex, Alfred is relaxed enough to get to know his new buddy.They share many likes (sleeping in the sun, dog food, and scratching) anddislikes (baths and the vet), and spend hours chatting. But then one day Rexdecides to dig a hole under the fence so he can come over to Alfred's side. It'sthe moment of truth--will Rex find Alfred unlovable when he sees him face toface?

Dan Yaccarino's story about real friendship (and the danger of shaky selfesteem) will strike a chord with anyone who has ever told a teeny tiny white lie(or a whopper) on the playground just to boost his or her image a bit. Alfredsuffers from a common malady: he believes anything others tell him. But on thefinal page, readers will rejoice to see Alfred and his pal Rex peekingmischievously over the windowsill at the naughty cat, who is obviously flusteredto see that her victim isn't going to take it any more. Yaccarino (illustratorof Circle Dogs, by KevinHenkes, I Love Going Through ThisBook, by Robert Burleigh, and many others), whose stylized gouache onwatercolor paper illustrations are recognizable a mile away, manages to makethis pug positively lovable despite what any feline might say. (Ages 4 to 7)--Emilie Coulter ... Read more

Book Description

In the Old Days There Were Songs

Something is bothering Russel Susskit. He hates waking up to the sound of his father's coughing, the smell of diesel oil, the noise of snow machines starting up.

Only Oogruk, the shaman who owns the last team of dogs in the village, understands Russel's longing for the old ways and the songs that celebrated them. But Oogruk cannot give Russel the answers he seeks; the old man can only prepare him for what he must do alone. Driven by a strange, powerful dream of a long-ago self and by a burning desire to find his own song, Russel takes Oogruk's dogs on an epic journey of self-discovery that will change his life forever. ... Read more

Reviews (66)

Adam's Review
Gary Paulsen has wrote so many great, interesting books and this book, "Dogsong", just adds to the collection. This is a story of a boy named Russel Suskitt that is an eskimo who wants to find his inner-self and get away from his normal, boring way of life. Russel goes and speaks to a elder man, but very clever, named Oogruk. He tells Russel about the way life was when men made their living and how they made personal songs of life. Oogruk teaches him how to hunt, how to find his inner-self, and to make his own song of life. So Russel decides to make his own song of life by going on an adventure that would risk his life. Russel gathers some dogs and gets a dogsled together and starts out for the biggest adventure of his life. Along the way he has to sled through mountains, icy terrains, and even rivers. He also met up with a polar bear. In addition, during his trip he also helped rescue an eskimo woman that was pregnant. Oogruk's teaching came to use when Russel had to hunt for his food out in the wild. Russel had a great time on this adventure being away from the village and finding his inner-self. He also built a friendship with the dogs that was very important for this young man out in the great wild. This adventure helped Russel find his inner-self and make his own song of life.

This book is very exciting filled with adventure, hunting, and tips for being in the wilderness. I enjoyed this book alot and gave it four out of five stars. If you are someone who does not like adventure and reading about the great outdoors then this book is not for you. I do really recommend it to anyone that likes adventure and reading about the wilderness.

Dogsong
Dogsong
The book is about living in Eskimo in modern world. I like this book, because this book tells me about how to haunt animals in a natural way. A boy name Russell, he learn from Oogruk, his father friend, on how to haunt caribou, seal, birds in which the meat used for food everyday. He also learns that there are songs for everything. One other thing that Russell has to work on is to trust with the dogs. The dogs have a special instinct that tells Russell where he should go in order to discover the northern land. If you want to see what will happen next, you have to read. I encourage to all readers to read this amazing book so that you know that there are another life out there, instead of TV.

My opinion about this book is that I could know how hard to live in an Eskimo land is. I don't know that there are songs for everything. True or not, don't ask me. Never the less, this book does teach us something.

Good book!
(...)This book is about a fourteen year old boy named Russel Suskitt. This book takes place in a modern Eskimo settlement and Russel lives with his father. Russel feels that he is missing something so he goes to visit a wise old eskimo named Oogruk. Oogruk tells Russel of the old times and teaches him how to hunt, find his inner-self, and to make his own song of life. After he Oogruk had told him to make his own song of life, he decided to make one by going on the greatest adventure of his life. Russel used Oogruk's dogs and his sled to go on his adventure. On the way, Russel finds an eskimo pregnant woman in the snow. He must find a hospital before she dies.

This book was fun to read because it was very exciting, filled with adventure,talked about hunting, and this book also had great tips for being in the wilderness. Whenever I finish reading this chapter it makes me want to think what will happen next. I also enjoyed reading this book because the author told things in such a descriptive way, "The coughing came from Outside, came from the tobacco which came from Outside and Russel hated it." Like many of Gary's other books this book tells great information on surviving in the wild. Even though I thought that Hatchet was a better book than this, I still enjoyed it very much.

This book has some weaknesses as well as strengths. This book sometimes did not tell enough information for me to understand. I also wondered why Oogruk would want to kill himself by leaving himself in the cold. I would not recommend this book to children hearing the death of other children. This book will probably be best for teens and young teens.

My favorite part of the book is when Russel decides to go on the adventure. It tells of him finding his inner-self and he makes a song also. On the way he also finds a young pregnant eskimo girl that was in one of Russels dreams. He determined to save her before she freezes to death. You must read this action-packed book if you want to know what happens next.

Excellent, but portrays harsh conditions
Dogsong is a Newberry Award winning novel about an Inuit boy who needs to discover his "song" or who he is. Russell lives in a small winter village and learns the old ways from Oogruk, a blind elder. Oogruk teaches Russell to hunt and to guide the dogs to travel. When it is Oogruk's time to stay on the ice, it is also Russell's time to take his journey and discover his song.

Along the way, a dream is interwoven with Russell's life. Life includes a hunt as does the dream, and both versions include death. In the dream, it is the death of the hunter's family and his dogs; in the dream it is the premature baby of an Inuit girl.

Although the story is beautiful and inspiring, I don't recommend it for a child who has a hard time hearing of the death of other children, no matter that most of the deaths were during the Stone Age. I read this out loud to my daughter and that night she awakened crying during the night. I had been unable to skim over the deaths of the children, but softened the blow for her by skimming over the dog deaths. This might be more appropriate for young teens than for pre-teens.

The wonderous adventures of Dogsong
It will make you hang on to your seat with suspense! This book is about a boy named Russel that sets out to find his own song. During his adventure, he finds more than he bargained for. It will also show you how dangerous an adventure or life can be. You should read this marvelous book. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (10)

What a hoot!
A humorous, well written book about a cowboy and his dog, and the pictures allow the story to come to life. We bought this book for our grandson, but have each already read it a couple of times. Since it's going to be a Christmas gift, we're hoping it doesn't show wear by the time we give it to him. What a combination Adam and Amy make! The art and writing work together as though one is watching a live presentation of the story. We hope to see more from these two, for childrens' enjoyment, as well as our own.

Masterpiece of Mesquite, Mud, Mayhem and Scrub Jays!
An absolutely beautiful book and a pleasure to read from Cover to Cover - literally! Such vivid descriptions, we could smell the desert AND got more than a wiff of that dirty cowboy. It's such a funny story, with great rhythm. The gorgeous illustrations are an absolute hoot to boot with the likes of the cowboy (check out his range of facial expressions!), his dog (crazy western wolf dog but oh-so-lovable), his trusty steed and the extended cast of a multi-eyed grey spider, a saxophone playing fly, a rabbit with clothes pin pinching her nose to keep out the aroma and on and on. What about the bath scenes!? And the fight scene that creates the dust devil which ends in a smudgy rainbow?! Incredible! Amy's words and Adam's illustrations play off eachother with vibrancy and laugh-out-loud humour.

Wonderful, funny book!
This book is highly entertaining and clever. We love it!

A "Must-Have" for any home library!
As a homeschooling mom, this book appeals to all of my children, ages 4-10. As many of the other reviews have stated, the vocabulary and literary style is excellent, the story is very appealing and the illustrations are simply wonderful. Amy Timberlake is a captivating story-teller who has warmed our family's hearts and is sure go far in the writing industry. I look forward to the future writings and illustrations of Ms. Timberlake and Mr. Rex for our homeschool. One more thing...We have given this book as a gift to a few of our friends - this makes a wonderful gift for families!

Dirty Cowboy - should be on every bookshelf!
The Dirty cowboy is a family story that has been handed down to the author, Amy Timberlake. I found it to be well written and loaded with humor. It's evident that this story was written with love and respect for great story telling. It's hard to believe this is Ms. Timberlake's first published work.

The illustrator, Adam Rex has captured Ms. Timberlake's story with accuracy and humor. His illustrations remind me of the early artwork of Norman Rockwell.

This book is not only for the young but the young at heart. Even at the age of 39, this book is a must have on my book shelf! ... Read more

Book Description

Harry, a friendly little dog on a visit to the seashore, is mistaken for a sea serpent when a big wave covers him with seaweed. ‘Very few children can resist [the stories about] Harry. The ridiculous but somehow plausible situations capture even the most reluctant reader.’ —SLJ.

Chidlren's Books of 1965 (Library of Congress) ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Harry the sea monster
Harry gets into another of his adventures, this time turning into a seaweed monster at the beach. The illustrations are delightful and it's a fun read.

Wonderful Story!
I have had this book since 1969 when I was 6 years old. It is a treasured part of my childhood! It tells the story of a lovable dog Harry and his family spending an eventful day at the beach. Children and adults alike will love this cuddly tale.

An adorable dog, kids, beach, adventure. 'nuff said!
This book instantly became a bedtime favorite with each of my kids (boy and girl). Harry is adorable, and just enough mischief and adventure (and smelly seaweed!) to keep the little one's attention, and to keep young readers turning the pages. You'll love it too.

Highly recommend this book!
This was my favorite book as a child. Great story and fun pictures. ... Read more

Amazon.com

Emily Elizabeth has a big red dog--the biggest, reddest dog on her street, and his name is Clifford. How big is he? He's so big that when he runs after cars, he catches them in his mouth, and his doghouse is bigger than Emily Elizabeth's house. Needless to say, he makes an excellent watchdog. Children love the idea of the things you could do and the fun you could have with a giant dog, and Norman Bridwell's delightful, Clifford-proof board-book edition will not disappoint. (Baby to preschool) ... Read more

Reviews (21)

Introducing Clifford.
This first Clifford the Big Red Dog book is in board book format so that younger children can flip through the pages and enjoy Clifford without accidently destroying the book. This book introduces Emily Elizabeth and her pet dog, Clifford. However, Clifford isn't an ordinary dog. He's big. He's red and he has some peculiar habits. Children of a variety of ages love Clifford and this book is a great way to introduce young children to Emily and Clifford. It's fairly short, entertaining, and contains a subtle message on acceptance as well.

One of my favorite classic childrens books!
Clifford The Big Red Dog was one of my favorite books when I was little it was one of the books my parens would have to read to me at bedtime, I still have the book too but is not in the best condition because when I was little I ripped the cover and scribbled all over the book, I'm thinking of buying this wonderful classic childrens book for my niece and since she loves dogs I'm sure she will love this book just as much as I did!

Good old Clifford
This is a short and sweet introduction Emily Elizabeth gives us to her oversized pal Clifford. She explains why she wouldn't trade him for any other and some of the aspects that make having him as a pet not so practical. Who can help but love this giant creature? I find the whole series amusing to young and old alike.

The Big Red Favorite of My Kids
Clifford is one of those literary creatures who adults find hard to quite "get." I am among those adults, but I have to admit, my children love all things Clifford and when his show is playing on the local PBS channel, its "must-see-TV" time for thekids.

This is the book that launched Clifford's career. Originally released in the late eighties, Clifford has grown into a children's icon. Norman Bridwell apparently hit upon a idea that resonates with children. Of course, most kids love dogs, red is a color that stand out, and I guess combine the two in a giant dog and you've got instant appeal to the toddler set.

I don't mean for that to sound cynical. Clifford's stories frequently contain good moral lessons for the children and most often revolve around the concept of "love" for one's pet and vice versa.

Oddly, in this, the first book in the series, there is no explanation for why Clifford is a giant dog (I've never sorted out how tall he actually is; sometimes he appears to be 10-12 feet tall and sometimes twice that height). Of course, my four-year-old could care less about explanations, she just loves him.

The cutest dog ever!
This book is siginificant to me because I love animals, especially dogs! This book is good for children because it will show them its ok to be different. I have 3 dogs so I think I know how hard it is to raise pets, it would probbaly be just as hard to raise Clifford because he is so big. In this book Emily talks about how much she loves Clifford and she doesn't care how he looks and would never trade him for another dog. Overall, this was a pretty good book. ... Read more

Book Description

Imagine walking to the same place every day, to meet your best friend. Imagine watching hundreds of people pass by every morning and every afternoon. Imagine waiting, and waiting, and waiting. For ten years. This is what Hachiko did.
Hachiko was a real dog who lived in Tokyo, a dog who faithfully waited for his owner at the Shibuya train station long after his owner could not come to meet him. He became famous for his loyalty and was adored by scores of people who passed through the station every day. This is Hachiko"s story through the eyes of Kentaro, a young boy whose life is changed forever by his friendship with this very special dog.
Simply told, and illustrated with Yan Nascimbene"s lush watercolors, the legend of Hachiko will touch your heart and inspire you as it has inspired thousands all over the world. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A heartwarming tale for all ages
When my 14-year old daughter heard the story of Hachiko, her voice caught in her throat as she cried out, "Oh!" and hid her tears. This poignant story of man's best friend is beautifully told by Pamela Turner. It will warm the hearts of readers of all ages.

A story sure to inspire you
This story of a dog's undeviating commitment to his master is sure to inspire you and warm your heart. It is beautifully told by a sensitive woman with firsthand experience of Japanese culture. The simple, lovely watercolor illustrations are endearing as well. My eyes swam before I got through this tender tale. ... Read more