School Library Journal Review
K-Gr 2--Who is running the show in this delightfully humorous easy reader? The first line of text, large black font on a white verso page, is "See the cat." On the recto page, a yellow dog proudly declares in speech bubble text, "I am not a cat. I am a dog." As descriptors of the cat accumulate, dog Max grows more and more indignant until indeed a cat does appear and the text "See the red dog" is paired with red-cheeked Max admitting, "I am so embarrassed." In the second story, the omniscient narrator begins, "See the snake" as Max resignedly responds, "Here we go again." The jig is up, however, as Max cleverly averts the dangerous snake by using a pencil to write in a different ending. In the third story, Max takes control by threatening to leave the book when the narrator again tries to manipulate him. Cartoon-style illustrations expertly support a text with repetition and simple sentences. As Max progresses from confused to canny to competent, children will find a reflection of their own reading journey as well as amusement at the metafictive aspect of a dog wrestling with a book. VERDICT This humorous, self-referential, fourth wall--demolishing easy reader features a dog who seems to be at the mercy of the storyteller--or is he?--Ramarie Beaver, formerly at Plano P.L., TX
Publisher's Weekly Review
The stage is set for a meta battle of wills in the opening of this early reader, divided into three short chapters, from the creators of Moo!. An omniscient narrator diverts from the illustrations, introducing Baby Cakes, "a blue cat in a green dress riding a pink unicorn," in lieu of Max, the yellow dog shown in the frame. Max argues that he is no such thing until, indeed, a cat and unicorn ride through the scene. But anyone who believes that this protagonist is going to be put upon for another two chapters has another, and very funny, think coming. First, Max uses a pencil to alter the text, averting a bite from an angry snake. Then, after defying the narrator's demand to "run and jump and spin and fly," Max announces that if the narrator makes good on a threat to have a hippo sit on him, he's outta there--and the book "will end up in the trash." The sharp humor and expressive, highly distilled gouache cartooning offer opportunities for lots of giggles, but the real joy of this stand-out beginning reader comes from watching a genuine underdog speak his truth. Ages 4--8. (Sept.)