Synopsis
Stella’s got an opinion on everything: the baby (“cannot be trusted near tail”), her humans, the other pets, her sleeping requirements (“But for a truly peaceful rest, be advised: Your bed is best”), undignified doggie sweaters, and the dull dryness of kibble. She even waxes poetic on the exalted status of pups in Paris, who are welcome everywhere…even in restaurants. And thanks to author Linda Ashman, who practically channels the canine mind, Stella expresses it all in a series of humorous verses that will have dog-loving kids laughing out loud. Add Paul Meisel’s fabulous illustrations, which convey every facet of Stella’s winning, wonderful, and wickedly funny personality, and who could resist?
School Library Journal
K-Gr 2- Stella, a newly adopted pound pooch, tells all in 29 poems, humorously describing her life. Readers get her opinions on topics from humans to Hollywood. She endures boring food and dress-up, but delights in the dog park and treats. "I am, of course,/a grateful sort,/who doesn't like to quibble./But, really, friend,/do you intend/to feed me only kibble?" Ashman aptly captures life with a pup, balancing the sweet (lap naps) with the sour (shedding). The final selection, "At Your Service," sums up why dog lovers exist. Meisel's realistic acrylic, gouache, and pencil illustrations are filled with a variety of people and pups. "Water!" shows a priceless view of bath refusal and "The Bow-Wow Boutique" abounds in festive details. This collection of rhymes is ideal for family read-alouds.-Gay Lynn Van Vleck, Henrico County Library, Glen Allen, VA