This is a Dog

Wonderfully silly and great fun to read, the front cover alone jumped out to my children. This is a Dog is a delightful picture book for sharing with very young children in teaching the names of various animals whilst also having a giggle at the silly naughty Dog who is intent on imitating the animals and taking over the book (including the title). Dog is introduced on the first page, which is clearly set out as a picture book about introducing animals 'This is a Dog'. However, on the second page - introducing cat - the dog begins to creep onto the page and by the fifth page, he is well and truly taking over the spotlight. Poor old squirrel is chased up the side of the book, crocodile looks furious as his name is scribbled out and replaced with the word 'dog' and giraffe is disgusted that Dog pees against his leg. By the end of the story, Dog has caused chaos and the animals attempt to chase Dog out of the book. But Dog is too quick and tricks the animals, ensuring that the final page is devoted to 'Dog'. This is an original and funny way of introducing animal names to young children, we really enjoyed reading this story. In an early years environment, this picture book is great for developing confidence in reading through the repetition of 'This is a...' and ensuring the story stays fresh through Dog's mischief. Brilliant fun with large font and colourful and imaginative illustrations. Children will delight in the facial expressions of the animals as Dog deliberately tries to take over their page. Picture book / Ages 3+ / Reviewed by Joanna Hewish, teacher

Suggested Reading Age 3+