This Is the Dog

Theresa Paltzat is the Smart Search librarian at the Edmonton Public
Library.

This puppy is trouble! He escapes from his young owner and sets off on a
spree of puppy mayhem. He steals hot dogs and fish, catches Frisbees,
destroys a sandcastle, and then, after being defeat by an old tomcat,
hitches a ride home in a wagon full of dolls. Despite all his
mischievousness, there is a bath, warm towels, and a bone waiting for
him.

Sheryl McFarlane’s story of an exuberant and troublesome puppy will
resonate with most pet owners. The story ends with the message that
despite the day’s mishaps, there is love and hugs at home for both the
puppy and his owner. This is a wonderful story to read aloud; the verses
in the book are very appealing rhymes, set to the cadence of “this is
the house that Jack built”: “This is the dog / too excited to stay /
a tail-wagging puppy / all ready to play.”

Chrissie Wysotski’s soft watercolour illustrations are warm and
friendly. They depict the energetic antics of this adorable puppy, as
well as the frustrated or surprised expressions on the faces of the
humans he troubles. These charming illustrations garnered Wysotski a
place on the short list for the Amelia Frances Howard-Gibbon
Illustrator’s Medal. This Is the Dog would make an excellent choice
for both libraries and personal collections. Highly recommended.