You decide: Perhaps I was doing a display for my library on this theme and realized it could also make a fun blog post. Or perhaps I’m selfishly hoping you all will post photos of your dogs in the comments. Whichever you choose….here are a few new (and one not-so-new) dog books to add to your summer reading.
Scientific concepts taught through dog ownership? Yes, please! The poems “Remembering Friction” and “Forgetting Friction” are particularly relatable, as the dog tries to avoid a bath (easier on carpeting; harder on the kitchen tile). Although some of the science might be a bit lofty for the intended audience, the poems are fun and accompanied by quirky pen and ink drawings and enhanced by “Dog-Powered Notes” (aka, back matter).
This appealing non-fiction book can be read with or without the extensive italicized content so younger and more advanced readers can enjoy and learn from it. I learned that dogs can quickly and easily learn to look where we point (unlike our close relatives, chimpanzees). I also didn’t know that dogs turned a cooking spit (not an enviable task for these hard-working pups). The illustrations are appealing and add to the likelihood of hearing, “Can we get a dog?” from young readers!
This middle-grade fiction features rule-follower Emily and Rani, who has just moved into the attic above Emily’s apartment. Rani, who reads like a mix of Amelia Bedelia and Pippi Longstocking, is full of wild tales and lacking awareness about basics like school. Otto, Rani’s big dog, knows how to deliver messages tied to balloons and lunches to the school cafeteria. This would make a fun read-aloud for fans of humorous but sweet stories.
The illustrations in this beautiful wordless picture book practically glow. It is an emotional but happy-ending story of a stray dog finding its forever home.
This book is a good fit for toddler storytime. Colorful digital artwork bring to life Sally’s adventures as she goes to puppy school. Occasional questions encourage interaction with the text.
Any and all dog photos (or favorite dog book recommendations) are welcome in the comments!
This blog post addresses the following ALSC Core Competencies: IV. Collection Knowledge and Management.