Pug's Snow Day

December 1, 2019

K-Gr 2-May's next title in the "Diary of a Pug" series is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of a dog's first snow. When Bella tells Bub that she is wishing for a snow day this winter, Bub has no idea what she means. Bella gets her wish, and the pair venture out into the snow for the first time where new experiences abound. Suddenly, monstrous sounds can be heard across the fence. Bella and Bub have to confront their fear of the unknown to find out the cause-a moving truck and new friends! The pair learn that being brave and confronting your fears can have great rewards. Extremely attractive color illustrations will grab readers from the beginning. Animal lovers will delight in following Bub's thoughts throughout the story. The diary entry format is a creative way of engaging early chapter book readers. The comprehension questions at the end are a wonderful addition to enhance engagement. VERDICT Readers new to chapter books will love the unique diary format and vibrant illustrations. Perfect for early learners who love animals, and a wonderful wintry choice for any elementary school library.-Elizabeth Pelayo, St. Charles East High School, IL

Copyright 2019 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

November 1, 2019
Bub the anxious pug tackles snow days and new neighbors in his second outing. Bub, acclaimed by some as "the cutest pug on the planet," at first shares the enthusiasm owner Bella expresses about snow days even though he doesn't know what they are. Then Duchess the cat (mildly antagonistic, in typical feline fashion) rains on Bub's parade by pointing out that snow is water--and Bub's no fan of rain or baths. After a comedic and disastrous first attempt, Bub learns how to properly dress for snow and enjoy it. The outdoor fun's cut short by mysterious noises coming from the new neighbor, which frighten Bella into thinking there's a monster. Bub puts on a Sherlock Holmes get-up to investigate but becomes afraid himself of the new neighbor's large dog. Finally, Bella meets Jack, who's been working on a tree fort, and his dog, Luna, who is enthusiastically friendly. The story ends on a positive note, as they all happily work together on the fort. The full-color cartoon illustrations, especially of Bub, are adorably expressive and certain to please the age group. The generous font and format--short, diary-entry paragraphs and speech-bubble conversations--create a quick pace. Bub's stylized emoji bubbles return and are most hilarious when used to express his nervous flatulence. Bella and Jack both present white. A strong, accessible diary story for readers seeking an adorable animal tale. (Fantasy. 5-7)

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