NO, NEVER!

Daisy, a headstrong Dalmatian, refuses to do her chores and eat her broccoli–only to learn that daily work plus helpings of veggies is the means to her dreams.

With colorful, whimsical illustrations, Lee introduces a young dog Daisy, who declares “No, Never!” whenever she’s faced with the not-so-fun aspects of life. Whether it’s doing homework or dishes, taking a bath or taking out the trash, cleaning or eating greens, the delightfully spotted pooch always protests. While many parents might take a hard line with such a stubborn daughter, Daisy’s loving mom goes the patient road, asking what exactly Daisy might like to do instead. This pup thinks big indeed, offering up such alternatives as writing the best book of all time and winning the “Tour-de-Daisy” (page bicycle tournament. This is all fine and good, but Daisy’s mom sagely points out that she must “take care of the goals that are important now in order to learn how to take care of the goals that are important later.” This spurs Daisy to start viewing such necessities as bathing and munching carrots in a positive light–and to change her belligerent behavior. The book contains a strong moral tale without any clichés and engaging pictures that are worth 1,000 words and then some. While the writing can be a bit wordy and are sometimes outshined by the illustrations, this is a minor complaint. Much modern-day kids’ fare preaches rather than listens. Just the fact that the pup’s mom inquires about Daisy’s goals and listens to the response–rather than merely telling her to be quiet and obey orders–is cause for celebration. This is how children become adults who write great books–by having parents who encourage them to question and think for themselves.

One wonderful Dalmatian.