Stanley the yellow lab brings new meaning to the term “party animal” in this hilarious story from Bailey and Slavin, creators of the Good Times Travel Agency series (Adventures in Ancient Greece, not reviewed, etc.). When Stanley’s owners leave him alone (and lonely) every night, he gradually learns to expand his behavioral parameters. First he climbs onto the couch without being caught; next he learns how to turn on the music and kick up his heels; and then it’s on to extra meals from the refrigerator. Finally he invites all the neighbor dogs over for a real party; they in turn invite all their friends, and the ensuing risky business results in a wild party with dozens of dogs dancing, eating, and generally whooping it up. (Don’t miss the cavorting canine on the cover with the lampshade on his head or the miniature poodle swinging from the chandelier.) Of course, the owners come home early that night—illustrated with a memorable spread of all the dogs staring buggy-eyed at the door in horror. In a satisfying conclusion, Stanley gets to ride along with his owners at night when they go out, and the story of the wild party continues to circulate throughout the canine world. (“And if you don’t believe me, ask your dog.”) Slavin’s polished paintings of Stanley’s antics and Bailey’s confident, breezy story add up to a triumphant cautionary tale that will leave both adults and kids laughing. Party on, Stanley. (Picture book. 3-7)
