THE TALES OF CHARLIE WAGS

In Wells and Barclay’s picture book, a friendly and curious pup has a special skill that helps him see the world.

Charlie Wags is a small and fluffy brown dog who lives in a house with a lovely garden. He’s a very ordinary dog aside from his love of travel and his unique ability to wag his tail and teleport to brand-new fabulous locations. Today, Charlie has decided on Paris, and with a little wag, he’s off to the Louvre. Charlie goes to see the Palace of Versailles, takes a boat ride on the Seine, and marvels at the Eiffel Tower as it glitters beneath the nighttime sky. He even has time to stop at a cafe for some pastry delicacies (“a taste of Paris in each treat!”). Wells and Barclay tell a very gentle and sweet story. Sjöström’s illustrations are beautifully rendered in watercolors; in a unique touch, the texture of the watercolor paper is visible underneath the images. Much care was taken to create fully realized backgrounds for Charlie’s adventures. The text includes pronunciation guides for the French attractions on each page, though it may be difficult for beginning readers to decode the cursive writing. After the story’s conclusion, readers will find more information about each place Charlie visited in Paris.

A charming tour of the iconic City of Lights for children.