Job Wanted

August 1, 2015
A scrawny but intelligent hound dog finds a home on a farm by winning over the reluctant farmer. The hound asks the farmer if he needs a dog, but the man is reluctant to take on a dog, saying that dogs don't earn their keep. The wily hound pretends to audition for a farm job as a horse, a cow, and a chicken, finding ways to help with each group of animals so that the entire farm operation improves its efficiency. After cleaning out the henhouse, the dog beds down for the night next to the hens, and it's his burst of loud barking that prevents a fox from stealing eggs or chickens. The farmer finally realizes the value of a good farm dog and offers the hound a home and a job. The dog's creative ploys and the physical humor resulting from his schemes propel the story to the satisfying, conclusive hug. Evocative illustrations in watercolor and colored pencil use a muted palette that suits the sad, earnest demeanor of the homeless dog trying to make a place for himself. The farmer wears glasses, but his eyes don't show within the eyeglass frames, perhaps indicating a man who can't see the value of a good thing right in front of his eyes. Humorous, with a bittersweet edge. (Picture book. 4-8)

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September 1, 2015

PreS-Gr 2-A scruffy dog wanders along a dirt road looking for a home. When he reaches a farm, he does not hesitate to ask the farmer if he is in need of a dog. The farmer quickly replies that indeed he does not. Determined, the courageous canine sets out to prove to the farmer his great worth. He herds the cows, entices the horses, and cleans the hen house, providing the headstrong farmer with much-needed time for rest. However, it is what the dog does when a predatory visitor arrives that makes the farmer realize how much he really is in need of a dog. This endearing story of a down-on-his-luck pooch who will not give up is both inspiring and entertaining. Children will be eager to discover how the dog will convince the farmer that he is a valuable animal, too. Set on a bucolic farm replete with rolling hills, plowed fields, and post and rail fences, the story and illustrations will take readers along on the main character's quest for warmth, food, shelter, and a place to belong. Done in muted shades of yellows, greens, reds, and grays with watercolor, graphite, and colored pencil, the illustrations complement the story nicely, adding emotion to the characters' experiences. The expressions on each character's face allow young readers to see and understand what each character is feeling. VERDICT A heartwarming tale that primary grade students will enjoy hearing.-Amy Shepherd, St. Anne's Episcopal School, Middleton, DE

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