"Ollie was glad to have friends with him
as the sun slipped lower in the sky,
and he invited them to dinner.
He was happy they
didn't see any dogs
along the way.
Not one."
Everything Ollie had ever heard about dogs terrifies him. Being a cat, it is not a surprise. Is all that he has been told the truth? Ollie thinks so; he chooses friends he knows are not dogs, then stays away from dogs at every opportunity. It's their mean eyes, giant teeth, and loud barks that make him quake with fear. The first quick reaction from young readers will happen when Ollie meets a creature (obviously a dog) with kind eyes and black-and-white fur. Ollie knows immediately it is not a dog; it must be a cow whose dog tag says it's name is Mildred. They spend time together watching the birds, and then walk on. The next animal they meet is described as a hippo named Finchley.
Their adventure continues through the park where they come upon more dogs that do not meet the criteria Ollie has in his head. I can hear (as you can if you have ever spent time in an early years classroom, or with kids of your own) the laughter and the constant cries to let Ollie know each new friend is really a dog! The happy, action-filled illustrations are consistent in telling a very different story - one that contradicts everything Ollie believes to be true about the dreaded dog. There is no scare in any of them. They are friendly, helpful, and fun. They have a wonderful time together and share a lovely meal. All the while Ollie is delighted to be spending his day with any animal but a DOG!
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