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Monday, March 30, 2020

Bad Dog, written and illustrated by Mike Boldt. Doubleday Books for Young Readers, Penguin Random House. 2019. $23.99 ages 4 and up


"My dog has black-and-white fur.

Pointy ears.

And a cute little nose.

Her name is Rocky,

and she is a bad dog."

While visiting schools for I Love to Read celebrations, this book was the one that seemed to hit all the right spots. It deals with a clear case of mistaken identity. No little listener can resist trying to clear up the misunderstanding from the story's opening. They are very vocal about it, which makes it all the more fun.

This little girl is aching for a dog for her birthday. Opening the box and welcoming her new friend is no deterrent, despite the fact that what is in the gift box is not what she is expecting. It makes no difference to her excitement when sharing the surprise with her audience. What she does admit is that this dog is NOT a good one. Rocky will not respond to being called. She doesn't like walks, preferring to play with the leash.

The list of bad behaviors goes on. No matter the circumstance, Rocky does not respond in the expected way. She is good at climbing, and at scratching. She is not a good listener. After some time, the owner does find a few things endearing. After careful thought and many unexpected experiences, our young miss admits that perhaps Rocky would be better as a 'cat'. Listeners will agree wholeheartedly.

I can attest to the fact that some children cannot let it go. They constantly intervened to let me know that the story was askew. Others were giggling with everything in them at the little girl who just would NOT realize the mistake she was making. All in all, it is one of those books that is requested AGAIN as soon as the book is read.

Mike Boldt's artwork is full of expression; effrontery on the part of the pet and eagerness for the patient owner. Both are perfect. Terrific visual humor keeps listeners totally connected to the story. They know exactly what is going on here, but can empathize with a girl whose plans have gone strangely awry.

Kids love to listen to books like this, and will be frantic to hear it all over again. 

                                                             

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