Other Dog, The by L'Engle, Madeleine

Recommended for Grades 3 and 4

(Page last edited 10/09/2017)

• Title: Other Dog, The
• Author: L'Engle, Madeleine
• ISBN: 0811852288
• ISBN 13: 978-0811852289

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Description:

Touche L'Engle-Franklin is confused: Her mistress goes away for several days—and then returns with another dog. But this dog doesn't have a tail. She doesn't have much hair. And she never has to go outside when it's raining. What on earth could the family want with that inferior breed known as Baby? Based on the true tale of her own poodle's experience coping with a new baby in the house, Newbery-winning author Madeleine L'Engle gives this familiar domestic drama an utterly charming new twist. Tongue-in-cheek wit, endearing illustrations, and a revealing author's note make this a publishing event to celebrate.

Review (From Amazon.Com):

From the beloved author of the Newbery Medal-winning title A Wrinkle in Time comes a charming story for younger readers, especially those with a new sibling. Touche L'Engle-Franklin, the very talented, sophisticated, and articulate poodle of the house, is shocked and dismayed when her master and mistress bring home another dog, especially such an odd-looking one. This interloper has no fur to speak of, no tail, and--horror of horrors--it does its business inside the house, in something called a diaper. Touche doesn't know what to make of this strange turn of events--after all, as she says, "This was a great waste of money. Dogs are expensive to feed and clothe, and one dog is enough for any family. I fail to see why I did not satisfy all requirements." Gradually, though, although she still considers the addition to the family an inferior breed, Touche begins to warm to "Jo-dog," and ultimately determines that "in every home there should be at least two dogs!"

Funny, touching, and original, this oversize picture book is just the ticket for disgruntled siblings. Precocious pooch Touche expresses her feelings toward the new baby in the household in a way that any child can relate to and every adult will recognize, and Christine Davenier's watercolor-and-ink illustrations have the nostalgic feel of Ludwig Bemelmans's Madeline books. (Ages 3 to 7) --Emilie Coulter

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