Fuddles and Puddles

July 15, 2016
A cossetted house cat copes with the addition of a rambunctious puppy to his previously placid household.Fuddles hasn't changed much since his previous appearances (A Very Fuddles Christmas, 2013, etc.). Still a (big) fan of eating, sleeping, and luxurious living, he's horrified when his family adopts a dog. The licking, slobbering, and chasing are bad enough, but purloining Fuddles' food is the last straw. Despite a decisive falling-out, however, Puddles (the aptly named puppy whose indoor accident precedes the first full image of him) still charges to the rescue when Fuddles accidentally encounters the scary dog next door. The plot is predictable, but Vischer energizes the tale with humorous touches in his digitally created cartoon-style artwork. Anthropomorphic antics and exaggerated expressions abound, as do unlikely situations, all set in a sunny, suburban world of green lawns and cozy interiors. The depiction of Fuddles lounging in a bubble bath, the black-and-white montage reviewing his previous (pampered) lives, and the numerous vignettes of Puddles engaged in typical canine behavior also emphasize the pets' contrasting personalities and preferences. Changes in font size, meanwhile, enliven the straightforward text by creating momentum and revealing emotions. Most likely to be appreciated by Fuddles' existing fans, this serviceable story offers another look at the age-old conflict between cats and dogs--and at their traditionally accepted qualities (like laziness and loyalty) as well. (Picture book. 4-7)

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September 1, 2016

PreS-Gr 2-Fuddles is a pampered, overweight house cat whose perfect world is turned upside down when his family brings home a new puppy. Puddles drools, whines, and annoys Fuddles to no end. Pushed to his limit, the indignant feline tells the interloper to "GET OUT OF HERE! THIS IS MY HOUSE." After that, Puddles keeps his distance. When Fuddles tries to pick a yummy avocado off a branch of a tree and ends up on top of the neighbor's doghouse, he sees his ninth and final life flash before his eyes. Puddles comes to his rescue, and Fuddles realizes that his rival is actually a good friend. The digitally rendered illustrations add humor and emotion to this tale about frenemies. VERDICT An entertaining offering loaded with hilarious moments that will delight listeners in storytime and small groups. A great addition to the series.-Paula Huddy, The Blake School-Highcroft Campus, Wayzata, MN

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