Dog Gone (paperback)

Dog Gone is the latest picture book from the ultra talented Rob Biddulph. As a big fan of his previous work, I was excited to get my hands on this title....it certainly didn't disappoint. Self described as a "wonderfully waggy adventure", the story takes the unusual twist of being written from the point of view of an animal character over the human companion.

Edward Pugglesworth is a pug who lives in a typical terraced house with his "pet" human Teddy. Life for Edward is what you'd expect. It is full of toys, playing, snacking and walking. Edward wakes his pet up from his nap to go for a morning walk through autumn leaves in the park. Rob Biddulph, as usual, paints a impressive picture with the language used and it really transports you within the pages of the story. I could certainly imagine myself crunching through the fallen leaves and seeing my breath cut through the cool breeze.

We journey through the park, greeting all of Edward's chums along the way and even braving a walk past the dark, scary shed where the so called Terrible Troll with his eating machine lives. The tone of the book takes a eerie turn on these pages as Rob feeds the feelings of fear into the reader.  Bravely, the two friends walk on and soon become distracted by the rest of the walk. Soon enough though, tragedy strikes.... Edward is alone! His pet Dave is no where to be seen! Edward has no choice but to retrace his steps. Will he be brave enough to check inside Terrible Troll's shed though?

This really is a wonderful story about friendship with the hidden message of not judging someone before you have met them.

Rob's words do a wonderful job in painting a picture in both the reader's and listener's minds and his rhyming style ensure that the flow and pace of the book is engaging. I hugely enjoyed reading this book both alone and to my class of Y1 children. They really enjoyed the journey Edward goes on as well as the human being the pet.  Rob's illustrations are what you would expect...bold, bright and hugely engaging. Rob has developed a very distinctive style and it is becoming easy to spot his fantastic work.

After the success of his "Draw with Rob" videos during the COVID lockdown, I would suggest that his new legion of fans flock to the shops to pick up this story....as should anyone else who is a fan of picture books. It really is a joy to read and is perfect for those cold, autumnal bedtimes.  Rob, this was a pleasure to read.

Picture book / Reviewed by Kyle Matravers, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+