SHAGGY DOGS, WAGGY DOGS

A cornucopia of canines!

There are many kinds of dogs in the world, and this cheerful collection of furry, frolicsome, tail-wagging critters endeavors to show them all. The concentration is on the many attributes of dogs, rather than breeds. Rhymed text describes different aspects of our four-legged friends: “Country dogs. / City dogs. / Itty-bitty pretty dogs. // Shy dogs. / Bold dogs. / Won’t-do-as-they’re-told dogs.” Vivid and colorful illustrations show doe-eyed puppies and adult dogs of different breeds from head to tail and back again, including various elements of their behavior, size, appearance, value and affection for those they love. As with Hubbell’s earlier book on cats, both the obvious and more elusive are covered here (I Like Cats, illustrated by Pamela Paparone, 2003). Youngsters will delight in the gentle humor and join in the catchy tempo with descriptive rhymes of their own. Good for encouraging children to notice details and characteristics, this straightforward selection is a celebration of all things canine and a fine read-aloud in both home and school or library settings.