Common Sense Note
Simple writing and a humorous, believable story will attract readers. Cartoon art captures Toby's moods and abilities perfectly.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Sally Snyder
Child-pet relationships are explored in this simple, gratifying story. A joyous Toby bounds through the pages, bewildered by the girl's commands but still happy-go-lucky and eager to please.
Parents and children will enjoy Toby's enthusiasm and the girl's confidence in her dog. The book is also a good choice for new readers just past the beginning stage; many will be able to read this book themselves, especially after going through it once with a parent.
Watercolor-and-ink paintings perfectly portray the exuberant and loving Toby. The brown-and-white basset hound's expressions will ring true with dog owners. The illustration of the girl and Toby celebrating his success touchingly conveys their mutual joy and love.
As the story drew to a close and the girl's brother admitted that Toby is smart, one seven-year-old commented, "If you're going to say anything bad about someone, say it to yourself, because it may not be true!"
Pinkerton, Behave, by Steven Kellogg, shows a Great Dane unable to properly learn commands, and the clever way his lack of ability is used to save the day.
From The Book
We like to pull on an old sock. It's Toby's favorite game. When we go outside, he chases me all around. At night, Toby sleeps by my side. He barks to protect me. But my dog Toby has never done a trick. I tried "Sit." I tried "Roll over." I tried "Beg." I tried "Fetch." Toby didn't do any of these things.
Plot Summary:
Sit! Beg? Roll over! Toby is a great dog, but he can't seem to learn any tricks. Toby's mistress tries various commands, but Toby doesn't seem to understand. Patience and persistence eventually bring success in this humorous and true-to-life story. Cartoonlike illustrations perfectly convey the girl's occasional exasperation and Toby's doggy responses.
Rate It!
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Social BehaviorThe girl's brother comments several times that Toby is dumb but recants. |
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