Percy and TumTum

August 1, 2012

K-Gr 2-When fluffy, adorable, and talented TumTum is adopted from an animal shelter, the other resident canine is not happy. Serious and dignified Percy refuses to be friends with such a silly dog, and the fact that everyone loves the happy-go-lucky newcomer only makes matters worse. To show his dissatisfaction, he plays mean-spirited tricks on the interloper, who doesn't let such behavior bother him. When TumTum receives the Pet of the Year award at the summer block party, jealous Percy devises his worst trick yet. He decides to be Delilah to TumTum's Samson. Deep in the night, he cuts off all of the sleeping pup's wonderful white hair. The plan backfires when the townspeople suddenly want to get haircuts just like TumTum's. Percy finally understands that it is the pooch's winning personality and not his fluffy fur that makes him so popular. In apology, Percy shaves off his fur and gains a new look and a new friend. Hill's graphic-style illustrations support the story and extend its humor. Themes of sibling rivalry and bullying are sure to resonate with many readers.-Catherine Callegari, Gay-Kimball Library, Troy, NH

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.