"I'm the king's taster. I taste all his food before he eats it, to make sure it's not poisoned. I also get his leftovers, plus whatever anyone drops under the table. I'm the king's taster, but I'm the cook's dog. We've been together since I was a pup."
Poor Cook! No matter what he prepares the young king is unimpressed. There is nothing that he likes to eat. Max, on the other hand, is the cook's dog and he eats like a king every night. He is first to taste everything that might go in the king's mouth. And he loves his life!
The cook works like a dog, and gets no thanks for it. The king pushes away the coronation dinner and Max eats it. The cook is tearing out his hair trying to find something that will appeal to his charge. A new recipe is needed...off they go to France. After much tasting they discover French fries. The king is not impressed. The cook is determined and off they go to Italy in seach of something new. After tasting experiences with fabulous breads, herbs, sausages and cheeses, the taste tempatation they bring with them is pizza! Deliciosa! Not so for the king...he will not eat it and throws it against the wall to show his disdain. A final journey to Mexico results in chili tacos. Nope, not good enough! The crocodiles have a feast.
The cook's concern now is for his life...the king has no patience with those who do not please him. Max is awake worrying about his friend and owner when he hears an unusual noise. Playing detective, he follows a trail of crumbs straight to the king's bedroom door. He rushes to alert his friend to his discovery. The cook follows and is astonished to find the king stuffing his face with candy! The king is furious at being caught and threatens his servant. Not one to be browbeaten, the cook pulls out all stops to assure the king knows who is the ultimate boss in the castle....and the problem is solved! The surprise ending brings a satisfying conclusion.
I would be remiss if I didn't encourage you to take a very long look at the artwork that accompanies this clever, winning story. It is done in mixed media collage, using mostly watercolors (and lots of purple) with smatterings of fabric, recipes and repeated typed words to add depth and interest. It is a great collaboration and provides a most enjoyable readaloud!
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