This introductory book to dogs in written in a conversational manner. There are no clearly defined chapters or sections, which encourages a child to read through the whole book. Broad topics are touched on such as how historically different breeds of dogs evolved, as well as behavior and physical characteristics of each. Another important topic included is the responsibilities of dog owners. While not really a book filled with data, it does give many interesting facts. For example, racing dogs such as the greyhound can run over forty miles an hour while the fastest human distance runner can only run fifteen miles an hour.
The book is illustrated with color photos of a variety of dogs. Some are close-ups giving a sense of familiarity while others show dogs in action running, playing and swimming. While the breeds are mentioned, there are no titles under most pictures identifying which breed the dogs might be. The front and back inside cover does list different groupings of dogs such as terriers and herding dogs. Within those lists a few dogs are given a red arrow from the breed name to a corresponding photo. The combination of adorable pictures with conversational text, and sprinkled with interesting facts will help hold readers attention.
Review Excepts:
"Simon writes crisply for a young audience, who will eagerly turn the pages to see the next endearing color photograph." -Booklist
"Readers will thoroughly enjoy every word and every photograph..." -School Library Journal
Connections:
*This book can be paired with Why Do Puppies Do That? also by Seymour Simon.
*Children can talk or write about what they need to do to take care of a dog.
*Younger listeners can color a dog coloring page. Older readers can draw their own dog (real or imaginary) and name them. They can then share their dog and why they named him what they did.
Simon, Seymour. 2004. Dogs. New York: Harper Collins. ISBN: 9780060289423
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