UN-WANTED

The furry, scratching, meowing new addition to the family definitely isn’t lovable—or is she?

Bumble the dog is on the case. Our protagonist notices strange things around the house—knocked-over house plants, shredded upholstery, ever-watchful yellow eyes. After a lengthy investigation, Bumble eventually realizes that these are all clues that the house has been infiltrated by a dreaded feline. Though initially resistant, Bumble discovers that there are benefits to life with a cat. The newcomer helps our hero access out-of-reach treats, provides soothing back rubs, and makes a great snuggling partner. Bumble’s wryly funny voice pairs nicely with Hogan’s artwork, rife with sight gags. Clad in a deerstalker hat and coat, Bumble cuts a hilarious figure with his long snout and wide, expressive eyes; an especially memorable page sees the harried-looking pooch poring over a detailed evidence board. Kids will giggle over a scene in which the oblivious Bumble recalls all the signs he’s missed: the litter box he mistook for a beachy getaway, the book on cat care he overlooked, and the second food dish he failed to notice. This tale of unlikely friendship will speak to little readers, who will love being in on the jokes. The pets’ owner is brown-skinned with curly brown hair.

Fun and heartwarming.