My Dog, Bob

Like all dogs, Bob likes breakfast, riding in the family car, and digging for bones. But unlike other dogs, Bob cooks breakfast for himself and his family, drives the family car and digs for dinosaur bones with a paleontologist. When the girl next door challenges Bob’s owner to a contest to see whose dog is best, Bob doesn’t sit, fetch or speak on command. Bob loses. "I’m sorry," Bob says as the girl and her dog march off in triumph. But to make up for his deficiencies, Bob makes pizza for the family.
Readers will enjoy the wry humor that is underscored by an ironic text and understated illustrations.* "Though the story is short and understated, its gentle, ironic humor and quiet acceptance of individual strengths sends a powerful message.  Not everyone has the same abilities, and sometimes one who is les than successful on the playground may be a star at home in the family constellation. Cartoon-style illustrations in watercolor and oil pencil use simple shapes and uncluttered backgrounds to effectively complement the restrained feeling of the succinct text. Quiet and clever, just like Bob."—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review
 
"This humorous story is great for beginning readers. The bright cartoon illustrations follow the text perfectly and will catch the eye of any child."—School Library Journal
 
"Subtle visual humor, especially regarding Bob's exceptional skills, make this lighthearted story a winner."—Publishers Weekly
 
"Whether Bob's feats are seen as real or imagined, this charmer of a picture book, reminiscent of Norman Bridwell's original Clifford the Big Red Dog (1973), is great fun for reading aloud."—BooklistRichard Torrey has written and illustrated several books for young people, including Moe Is Best, an I Like to Read® book. He lives in New York State.