A PUPPY LIKE YOURS

Mutual support for mutual needs is the theme of this paean to pups.

When it comes to dogs, reciprocity rules: “We train them—and they train us. We care for them—and they care for us.” Puppy positivity is a big reason for our love of dogs: “Puppies live in the moment and make each day count!” The book recognizes the attributes that make canines beloved companions—fidelity, playfulness—as well as the life-changing service of working dogs (including helping those who are visually impaired and wheelchair users). Unconditional love is one of the gifts a dog can offer, along with modeling curiosity and persistence and providing comfort. A wonderful wordless spread depicts puppy communication and interaction. In one vignette, a dog sticks its head out of the window of a moving car (“He celebrates the simple things”)—a potentially dangerous activity. That lapse aside, readers will revel in the pooches portrayed in all their goofy glory and loving loyalty, in detailed, accurately colored, careful illustrations that show a vast variety of breeds. We could do worse than to emulate some of the dog-embodied qualities described here. Human characters are diverse.

A celebration of canine contributions to human life.