JIA HAS A DOG PROBLEM

An apprehensive pair—one canine, one human—learn they are braver than they realize.

Jia doesn’t know the reason for her fear; she’s never been attacked or chased. But the youngster is unwavering: She’s “PETRIFIED of dogs.” Upstairs, French bulldog Charlie shares a similar skepticism about children. Throughout the substantial text, Sy is unfailingly respectful toward her protagonists’ trepidation. Readers will feel for Charlie, who avoids walks whenever possible (lest he see a dreaded youngster), and Jia, who gears up for potential pup encounters with oven mitts and goggles. Kung’s jagged, childlike drawings of pointy-toothed hounds and looming children vividly depict their fears. But after they are stranded together by happenstance during a frightening storm, they find unexpected comfort in each other. Both author and artist make astute decisions as they draw repeated parallels between dog and child. Sy adeptly demonstrates the power of empathy, using clear, tangible examples, such as Jia interpreting Charlie’s terrified drooling as “shaking with hunger.” Cartoon-style watercolor illustrations with clean, dark outlines are smart and punchy. Kung frequently relies on a complementary palette of swirly golds and purples for Jia and Charlie, creating scenes that feel simultaneously dramatic and harmonious. Facial expressions and Jia’s bobbly pigtails are perfectly exaggerated, heightening tension and humor. Jia presents East Asian, as do most of her neighbors.

A doggone delight.