So, you don't "need" my formal review. But I will say that if you haven't read K.L. Going's picture book DOG IN CHARGE (2012, Dial Books for Young Readers), it is one to find. I was familiar with the author's young adult Printz Honor book, but the picture book was a new one for me. Probably because it's so funny, kids are taking it out of the library (the nerve!) and it hasn't spent enough time in the bins for me to find it. It is a gem for dog lovers, cat lovers and humor lovers. Imagine the chaos that breaks out when a dog is asked by it's owners to take care of five cats while the owners are out! Dan Santat captures the good-natured doofy dog and the haughty Siamese cat perfectly in the illustrations. It reminded me of the old Pink Panther movies where Peter Sellers has moviegoers in stitches with a single eyebrow-raised closeup. Silly, silly, silly and so good.
Spoiler alert: the official earlier review gives the ending in their synopsis. It's a short book. Just go read it!
So, that shortens today's post considerably. Have a great weekend!
Any NEW reviews for perfect picture book Friday are posted on Susanna's blog.
I'll be heading over to read them soon and learn what else I've missed!
I hate it when I have my heart set on a review and then find it on the list, but then again, I love sharing the love of a good book. After my initial dismay, I get a warm, fuzzy, "connected" feeling - like we're sharing a secret, Thanks for the spoiler alert.
ReplyDeleteMultiple reviews of great books are great! But I don't want to make more work for Susanna-checking the list. Tough call. I guess I could use the regular review format but note at the top that it's a double.
DeleteThis does look like a gem. Kids love humor -- especially with animals.
ReplyDeleteTime passes and people forget what has been reviewed. I will review a book at a later date if it's a subject I want on my blog. It's always nice to have a reminder about a good book.
That's a good approach, Pat! Good funny works forever.
DeleteAlways a good sign when it has been reviewed before on PPBF! Those pooches on the front cover are so cool. Thanks for not giving away the ending ;)
ReplyDeleteI will give a proper review of a repeat next time. Susanna doesn't mind (and I'll flag it!)
DeleteWhat fun! Thanks for sharing it, even though it's already on the list.
ReplyDeleteI read other "good" picture books last week, but this was the only one that met the perfect standard for me.
DeleteKnowing my cats, they think they are always in charge!
ReplyDeleteThen you would love this book - and the twist.
DeleteSounds like a really fun book:)
ReplyDeleteIt still makes me laugh when I think about it!
DeleteI thought I recognised that style. Dan Santat is everywhere. Thanks for letting us know about this one Wendy.
ReplyDeleteThis is a super cute book, Wendy, and no worries about a double review at this point! It just proves it's really a good book :) And if you give different resources or ideas of how to use it, then that's terrific for people looking for ways they might incorporate it. I am a huge Kelly Going fan - I know her personally, and her MG and YA books are amazing! Although I love them all, I am particular fond of The Liberation Of Gabriel King!
ReplyDelete