Little Puppy and the Big Green Monster

PreS-K—Delightful depictions of a naive puppy and a grumpy monster drive this story that strikes an emotional chord with very few words. Once the children have departed on the school bus, the pup, now alone, dismisses other potential playmates as being "too lazy," "too mean," and "too boring." Surprisingly, he is not dissuaded from trying to engage a seemingly unapproachable creature. The humor in this story, represented mainly through hilarious illustrations, is based on misinterpretation. The dog, clueless about the monster's true desire to read on a park bench, succeeds in getting the grumpster to play tag and hide and seek. Ultimately, he finds a place in the monster's bed and, of course, in his heart. This book will resonate with any child who has tried to convince an adult to abandon grownup concerns and just enter the world of childhood. Pair it with Suzanne Bloom's A Splendid Friend, Indeed (Boyds Mills, 2005) for discussions about "odd couple" friendships. This sweet story should claim a secure spot on most library shelves.—Gloria Koster, West School, New Canaan, CT