THE DOG WHO CRIED WOLF

Moka’s a good dog, and he loves his young owner Michelle. Life seems perfect until she reads a book about wolves to him. Moka takes a critical look at his life: the leashes, the dog food and particularly the tea party dresses. He decides life as a free wolf is preferable in every way, so he runs away and finds freedom fun until dinnertime. Every animal he chases gets away or laughs at his attempts to hunt. He decides he misses Michelle, but he wants to try howling at the moon. When real wolves answer, Moka races for home. Everything is perfect again . . . until Michelle reads a book about monkeys. Kasza’s simple story and expressive watercolor and ink illustrations are spot-on. Young listeners will see themselves in Moka’s discontent and wish it were as easy for them to try freedom. In the end, this tale of home and comfort will make everyone sigh with happiness. (Picture book. 3-8)