School Library Journal Review
PreS-Gr 1-In this simple, predictable story, Mudge wants Henry to share his food. The puppy climbs on the boy, sits on top of him, and then drools all over the floor. Finally, the pooch rolls over, prompting Henry to say, "Mudge, you are TOO cute" before giving him a bowl of crackers. The lyrical language and intriguing plotting, hallmarks of Rylant's original "Henry and Mudge" series, are missing here. Mones's colorful illustrations provide the requisite picture clues about the text, but Henry is depicted with angular cheekbones and a spiky haircut that give him a preadolescent appearance. Beginning readers who love dogs will find more satisfaction with Alyssa Satin Capucilli's "Biscuit" books (HarperCollins) or Mary Labatt's Pizza for Sam and Sam Finds a Monster (both Kids Can, 2003) until their skills support the more demanding and gratifying series about these lovable characters.-Laura Scott, Farmington Community Library, MI (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Horn Book Review
Henry and his dad always make a crazy lunch for Mom on Mother's Day. This year, they create a pineapple sofa, complete with a reclining fruit family. They plan, shop, and cook, all with trusty Mudge at their side, and the lunch is a hit. These funny meal plans, paired with lighthearted illustrations, are sure to capture readers' imaginations. From HORN BOOK Fall 2003, (c) Copyright 2010. The Horn Book, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.