Dog Days of School

PreS-Gr 1—Rather than face the grind of practicing his letters, drawing pictures, and trying to explain himself to his teacher, young Charlie wishes he could trade places with his carefree dog, Norman, on Sunday night. When his mother comes to wake him for school on Monday morning, it seems that his wish has come true. Hilarity ensues as Norman tries out the boy's activities throughout the week…with mixed results. He does fine with playing house, kickball, and maracas, but the teacher scolds him "for chewing his pencil, and the table, and her shoes." Meanwhile, Charlie stares out the window watching leaves fall, drinks from the toilet bowl, and endures a trip to the groomer. At week's end, and relegated to the backyard, Charlie wishes to be a boy once again. This clever text explores the "grass is always greener" notion with a deadpan delivery and Biggs's delightful, boldly outlined cartoon art extends the humor and brings down the (dog) house. The perfect choice for any reluctant scholars.—Luann Toth, School Library Journal