Harry the Dirty Dog
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
Expressive illustrations with old-fashioned charm.
Why We Rated This
for Ages 3 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence & scariness:
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Sexy stuff:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Harry the Dirty Dog was written by Linda Rahm-Crites
Parents need to know that children get a vicarious kick out of Harry's escape from home, and love the verbal and visual build-up from "very dirty" to "dirtier" to "dirtiest of all."
Families Can Talk About
- Families can talk about how Harry changes his mind. Why was it so important for him to take a bath?
More on Harry the Dirty Dog
Book Summary
Is It Any Good?
In print since 1956, HARRY THE DIRTY DOG testifies to the continuing appeal of a simple tale, low-key humor, and a likable main character. But what really makes this and the other Harry stories stand out is Margaret Bloy Graham's pen-and-ink, pastel-washed drawings. Harry, a black-and-white spotted mutt with little short legs, a stubby tail, and an upturned nose, is surely one of the most appealing dogs in children's literature.
Being a dog, he perceives his world in an amusingly animal-centric way. Humans, although loved and needed, are just more fauna in Harry's life, and he's smarter than his family. All this helps children rejoice in their identification with Harry, but the story isn't really about all-out rebellion. Harry appreciates his home -- he just wants to have more control over bath time.
Publisher’s Details
Number of pages: 32, Price: $6.99 (paperback)
Read Aloud: 2-6, Read Alone: 7-8

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