ABC Dogs

School Library Journal

K-Gr 2Darling uses the alphabet to introduce 26 canine varieties. Each page has a large, full-color photograph of a dog accompanied by a smaller photograph of a puppy of the same breed. A few lines of text emphasize what the breed is best known for or what job it might perform. Bulldogs, for instance, are often chosen as team mascots because they are "strong and don't quit even if the going gets tough," while the Yorkshire terrier is a companion dog that is "small enough to be invited to a teddy bear tea party." Bone-shaped sidebars list each animal's size, the color of its coat, etc. In some cases the author has taken liberties in noting that the animal "likes" to help or stating that the Newfoundland "will swim out and rescue you," indicating it would do this on its own. A two-page "Dog Hall of Fame" shows the fastest runner, best swimmer, etc. All of the letters of the alphabet are included, even "X," with the Xoloitzcuintli or Mexican Hairless. "M" stands for mixed breed. The letters are brightly colored and block formed. Gail Gibbons's Dogs (Holiday, 1996) provides more information, but Darling's book fills a need for young readers wanting to see "real" pictures of pooches.Margaret C. Howell, West Springfield Elementary School, VA