Bingo Did It!

November 1, 2016

PreS-Gr 2-Wisteria Jane loves to play and dress up with her dog Bingo. The dog knocks teacups over after Wisteria invites him to a tea party. Wisteria also digs up her mother's flower bed while continuing a hole that the dog started to dig. She blames the dog for the trouble she gets into after she is questioned by her mother about both events. After each incident, she boldly exclaims, "Bingo did it!" Wisteria's mother teaches her about what it means to take responsibility for one's actions. Wisteria realizes that her mother and father have both taken responsibility for events that did not go as intended as opposed to blaming others for the mishaps. She chooses to adopt a new outlook. The illustrations in this book are done with curved lines, giving them a textured look and depth. Pastel colors imbue the drawings with a warm and inviting feel. The narrative moves with a pleasing, rhythmic pace. The relationship among mother, daughter, and pet are both believable and adorable. This book encourages children to take ownership of what they do and to choose actions that communicate respect toward their peers. VERDICT Young readers will fall in love with the mischievous Wisteria Jane and her curious playmate.-Deanna Smith, Mamaroneck Public Library, NY

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