PUPPY PROBLEMS

Squirrel wars, furballs, and a new family member are just a few of the problems pets face in this humorous graphic novel for younger readers.

Crackers, a dog with a big to-do list—barking, napping, peeing outside, barking again, and sniffing stuff—lives with Butter, a wise cat who fantasizes about boxes and can openers. The two live in harmony until their human (seen only as a pair of light-brown hands) brings home Peanut, a panting puppy who pees on the floor, eats Crackers’ food, interrupts nap time, and keeps both Crackers and Butter up at night. After their human leaves them alone with Peanut and a disastrous mess of garbage, strewn toilet paper, and chewed shoes, books, and furniture results, they think that this will end Peanut’s stay. When Peanut receives only a finger-wagging, Butter devises a plan that ends with Peanut lost and alone. Readers, especially those with pets, will find comedic recognition in the antics of these three furry friends and pleased satisfaction when Butter’s and Crackers’ moral compasses kick in, Peanut’s rescue creating a bond that brings the three together. With humor that is observant and good-natured, Braddock’s engaging comic-book paneling and pacing are an ideal match for early readers ready to delve into something a little longer. (Efird contributes the colors.) The banter between Crackers and Butter reveals genuine affection between the two, and Peanut’s puppy earnestness is endearing.

An easy handoff to animal lovers.