Synopsis
"Emma's dog, Toby, was always in trouble.
On Monday he got into the garbage.
On Tuesday he ran into the road.
On Wednesday he ate a loaf of bread that Emma's dad had just baked."
No matter what day of the week it is, Toby's up to no good. His owner, Emma, doesn't know what to do! So she takes him to dog training school, where Ms. Katz teaches him everything a dog needs to know. By week's end, Toby has learned some surprising new tricks, leaving no doubt as to why he is top dog in Emma's eyes!
Children's Literature
Emma's dog, Toby, is always in trouble—in fact, he seems to have a different misbehavior for each day of the week. Emma and her parents realize that something has to be done. At first, Emma tries to give her pet extra special attention—that works for a few days but by the weekend, Toby is back to his old ways. So the family tries out an obedience school. The day camp version doesn't work but after a week with the formidable Ms. Klatz, Toby is under control from Monday through Saturday; the story ends with a little mischief in the park on Sunday, since, after all, "no dog can be perfect always." Jones's engaging illustrations will have strong appeal for those who like the style popularized by the Simpsons' creator. It is refreshing to have this cheerful book feature a solidly middle class family of color. Reviewer: Mary Hynes-Berry