Synopsis
Ryan is fast like a cheetah, but his friend Doug is not. After they get timed in gym, Doug comes in behind everyone else. "Doug the Slug," chants Ryan and he gets a lot of laughs. Doug is upset but Ryan doesn't notice.
Kimberly O'Meara - Children's Literature
Ryan learns lots of cool animal facts from his friend Amy, but when he uses his knowledge of the slug to tease his friend Doug, Ryan risks loosing a friend. Doug admits to Ryan that he is nervous about the race in gym that afternoon, but Ryan ignores his friend's feelings and calls him "Doug the slug" after Doug finishes last with the slowest time in class. Later that evening Ryan learns his lesson when he is teased by his big brother and Dad scolds Judd for his insensitivity. Learning to respect your friends and others feelings is the theme embraced in this selection from the, "The Way I Act" series of picture books. Teachers and parents can use this text for an individual child or group of children to create lively discussions centered on feelings, friendships, being left out, and trying your personal best. All children would benefit from this and other books from the series. 2006, Albert Whitman & Company, Ages 5 up.