Poodle and Hound
by Kathryn Lasky
Illustrated by Mitch Vane
Poodle and Hound are friends. Sometimes they get on one another’s nerves but sometimes they are perfect together. For instance, Poodle goes to get her fur done. She thinks Hound won’t even notice so she treats herself to tea at the Ritz. She gets lonely sitting by herself and then when she gets home, Hound brags on how nice she looks. She is glad she saved some of her cookies to share.
Then there is the night when Hound goes to the roof to study the stars. When Poodle comes out to keep him company, he is irritated that he can’t concentrate. She distracts him with her constant questions but then she makes up stories that fascinate him. Finally he doesn’t mind her talking so much because her stories are so interesting. When Hound plans a spring garden, Poodle wants him to grow flowers. Oh, no, Hound’s plan only includes vegetables. After some reading at the library, Poodle finds a way to get her flowers and help Hound. These three stories celebrate how Poodle and Hound stay friends.
Poodle and Hound are each distinct characters. Poodle is a more feminine character but she does her share of gardening. Hound is a more masculine character but he is willing to whisper stories under the stars. They seem like a married couple who have a lovely friendship. What’s compelling about these stories is that Poodle and Hound could argue over their differences but they don’t. They work out their differences in a heartwarming kind of way.
This selection is perfect for a strong reader to work on his or her reading skills.
TITLE: Poodle and Hound- AUTHOR: Kathryn Lasky
- ILLUSTRATOR: Mitch Vane
- PUBLISHER: 2009, Charlesbridge, 48 pages, fantasy
- REVIEWER: Risa Brown
- ISBN: 978-1-58089-322-0
