How to Be a Dog

PreS-Gr 1—A family dog passes along information about becoming a pet in this tongue-in-cheek guide to helping other pups find happy homes. After describing the first step—finding the right human to live with—the canine narrator goes on to share other tidbits, including how to welcome visitors and finagle extra treats and fun games to play, closing with "And you will be very happy in your new home. Just like me." Comical illustrations accompany each instruction, depicting human reactions to the dog's sage advice (a grandma and boy express surprise and dismay as their dog knocks over a table in search of crumbs beneath, while the text reads, "Your human will be pleased with your help cleaning the floor"). Sketchlike illustrations and a color palette of red, gray, and robin's egg blue give the visuals a retro feel. Kids will find lots to laugh at, and pet owners will certainly connect with the trials and joys of having a dog. Simple sentences and delightfully contrasting pictures make this a fun read-aloud sure to please all ages.