Rescued from the streets in Pierre Le Poof! (2009), Pierre enjoys his life of canine comfort with his human companion, Miss Murphy, though the former stray yearns to share his world of riches with his old buddies. He seeks guidance from a desolate doggie authority, aptly named Old Wheezer, to find the strays' current whereabouts. The straightforward plot plods to its obvious conclusion as lonely neighbors unite with abandoned pups. Wholesome musings force both characterization and conclusion: “[Miss Murphy] always said dogs and people belonged together,” when referencing the grouchy old neighbor. The unsurprising ending finds all pets in their deserved homes. The brown, bouffant-ed Pierre is appealing, and his desire to rescue friends in need is undeniably praiseworthy. Still, though this lovable hound hero may inspire a fleeting case of puppy love, the predictable plot prevents the creation of a dog-eared classic. (Picture book. 3-6)
