SAMMY GOES TO THE DOCTOR

In Feria’s picture book, a pup visits the doctor for a check-up.

Tan-furred puppy Sammy is fast asleep when his mom wakes him in the morning for a doctor’s appointment. Confused, Sammy is worried and doesn’t know what to expect from this trip. “Mommy, is the doctor mean?” he asks. His mother playfully chides him for being silly and explains what will happen next. The toys in the waiting room at the doctor’s office instantly make Sammy feel more comfortable. Once the nurse calls him inside, she weighs and measures him before asking his mom about his diet and exercise routine. A kindly giraffe doctor then comes in to listen to Sammy’s heart and instructs the nurse to give him a few shots, which scare Sammy but turn out fine. Sammy invents a whole new game that he can play with his mom based on his experience. Providing clear step-by-step description of a trip to the doctor’s office, Feria’s debut picture book is a well-executed social story that may help to calm young readers’ fears about going to the doctor themselves. The thoughtful text effectively describes the process in a personable manner that keeps the narrative from becoming pedantic. Rocha’s illustrations add an element of fun by portraying everyone as animals in a colorful world without too many distractions.

A reassuring look at seeing the doctor.