I Will Love You Anyway

November 1, 2016

PreS-Gr 2-A large-eyed pup tries to follow the rules and learn his role within a household in this tale of unconditional love. Perfect as a read-aloud, the rhyming text highlights a first-person narrative of the little dog's confused patter. Humorous cartoon images feature pencil and watercolor drawings of his red-haired, bespectacled young owner; hugs; soulful expressions; and many views of running feet. "Stop!...Quit!...Leave!...Sit!" The commands continue, and the pooch feels he cannot do anything right and promptly runs away. But running away, day after day, merely creates more chaos, especially when he encounters cats or cows. As frustration between adults and pet rises, the threat of leaving the household permanently escalates when a crack of thunder propels a confused and frightened puppy into life-threatening danger on rain-drenched nighttime streets. VERDICT With a reassuring rescue, a bit of humor, and a heartwarming resolution, this is a recommended purchase for most libraries.-Mary Elam, Learning Media Services, Plano ISD, TX

Copyright 2016 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 15, 2016
Preschool-G A scraggly, bug-eyed little dog speaks for himself here, telling readers in gentle rhyme his preferred activities, a veritable litany of bad behavior. He likes to lick, bite, nip, and paw at his owner, a bespectacled, red-haired boy. He loves scratching, digging, and bashing about the house. As for the boy's glove, shoe, and socks? He steals them, of course. The pup knows he shouldn't but asserts he cannot follow commands like Stop!, Leave!, or Sit! When the boy and dog overhear voices saying the dog has to go, the dog runs and runs (the type getting smaller as he gets farther away) until he has no idea where he is. Finally, as he whines and whimpers, the boy finds him. The dog realizes he can't and won't change but will always love the little boy (and he promptly jumps the fence). Buoyant illustrations fit the rambunctious mood. Readers may want to follow up with Mick Inkpen's Kipper series and Zoe and Beans books.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2016, American Library Association.)