Pup and Hound Play Copycats

In this Level 1 first reader, Hound tries to teach tagalong Pup some new tricks.

Children's Literature

In this recent addition to the "Kids Can Read Series," Pup and Hound spend a typical day romping and playing around the farmyard. They tug at an old shoe, visit the pigs, chase, play, and hide, much like the young children who will read this adventure. They also have a similar problem, copycatting. Hound quickly tires of Pup's tagging along and mimicking everything he does, but nothing deters his young friend from snooping and finding his every hiding place. Not until Pup falls into a stream does he discover what true friendship means. Detailed illustrations of this active duo work well with the simple sentences, large font, and easy vocabulary to make this a highly predictable text. Also, young children will identify with the familiar subject matter. The rhyme and humor provide a fun read, especially for kids just starting to read. This friendship story is sure to be a hit in early primary classrooms, as well as libraries and media centers. Reviewer: Carol Kirkham Martin

Susan Hood is the Children's Content Director for Nick Jr. Family Magazine and the author of more than 200 children's books, including eight Pup and Hound titles for Kids Can Press. Other writing credits include The New York Times, Sesame Street Parent's Guide and Working Mother magazine.

Linda Hendry is an award winning illustrator and author of over 60 books for children, including many Kids Can Craft books and the Pup and Hound series. She lives with her husband, twin daughters, and a fuzzy cat near Rockwood Ontario.