Why Are Dogs: An ­Illustrated History of the Wonderful World of Dogs

Gr 4-8–This graphic novel is bursting with information on many (not all) dog breeds. After a short introduction of the evolution of the dog/human relationship and how breeds developed, the book is divided into categories: hunting-large dogs, hunting-small dogs, guarding and transportation, livestock keeping, and companionship. Each breed’s place of origin is highlighted, including a history of their evolution, the job they were bred for, and interesting facts are included. Readers will love how much there is to learn about each breed; for example, dalmatians were known to travel with the Romani people, or that people once believed corgis are a gift from fairies. The graphic novel uses a nonlinear layout with plenty of white space that partially disguises just how much information is packed into each section. Cartoon illustrations show humans of all races and abilities with their dogs, engaging in pet-centric activities. Occasional humor, such as when the Great Dane helps itself to human food, is mixed in with serious moments of Yorkshire terriers working to keep the rat population down in mines, or a Labrador retriever acting as a Seeing Eye Dog.