BOOKS

My Dog Spot

by Norma R. Levin
LEVIN, Jack E. & . illus. by Jack E. Levin & Norma R. Levin. 40p. S. & S./Aladdin. May 2016. Tr $17.99. ISBN 9781481469074.
COPY ISBN
PreS-Gr 1—Best-selling historian and artist Jack E. Levin takes a break from the adventures of American presidents to focus on a topic much closer to home, the family dog. Spot is based on his real dog, Sporty. The Levins have a deft talent for creating simple yet lively drawings with whimsical expressions. Spot is carefully crafted, and the pastel illustrations match the text well, making it easy for children to decode the actions and objects throughout the narrative. While Spot's real origins contribute depth to the creation of the book, a preface and introduction feel out of place at the beginning of this picture book.
VERDICT This simple story will engage beginning readers and dog lovers alike. A fun and pleasing addition, but not a necessary purchase.
Reviewed by Maria Alegre, The Dalton School, New York City
A youngster gives a straightforward description of his dog. Childlike, artfully composed drawings on a textured brown background show Spot going about his canine business, endowing him with personality and suggesting affection behind the matter-of-fact hand-lettered text. The Levins' introduction notes the real-dog inspiration for the story, originally written sixty years ago; a preface by their son Mark is also included.
 , Jun 01, 2016

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