Adventures of Bailey: A Night in Cowtown

K-Gr 5—Bailey is a white golden retriever who develops a longing for the cowboy life when he watches an old Western movie on TV. When Felix, the Pekingese next door, is kidnapped, Bailey is ready for adventure and decides to investigate, despite the discouragement of his brother, Duke. The trail leads to the Fort Worth Stockyards, lending atmosphere to the Western theme. There viewers meet Big Dog, a stocky bull dog with a voice to match, who puts Bailey in touch with El Capitan, a mysterious Weimaraner who knows where Felix is being held. Dog fans will enjoy watching the crew of beautiful canines, including Bailey's love interest, Trixie the Collie. Viewers accustomed to more high-tech animal movies may be disappointed that the dogs don't visibly speak, and except for Felix who has many tricks in his repertoire, they don't do much in the way of performing. The voices of the dogs are expressive and fit their personalities. The child actors are winning, though, and the bad guys are convincing as comically bungling adversaries. Gentle, amiable teasing between siblings and a sweet preteen romance interest add depth. A family-friendly, entertaining movie.—Constance Dickerson, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, OH