Stick Dog, Book 1

Book review by Darienne Stewart, Common Sense Media
Stick Dog, Book 1 Poster Image

Common Sense says

age 7+

Warm-hearted dogs in silly Big Nate-style adventure.

Tom Watson Humor 2013
Rate book

Parents say

age 6+

Based on 1 review

Kids say

age 6+

Based on 1 review

Common Sense is a nonprofit organization. Your purchase helps us remain independent and ad-free.
Rate book

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

A Lot or a Little?

The parents' guide to what's in this book.

What Parents Need to Know

Parents need to know that Stick Dog is the first of a series about a group of canine friends that invites comparison to Big Nate and Diary of a Wimpy Kid: All feature line drawings on notebook-style paper, middle-grade humor, and comical adventures. In this story, the dogs scheme to steal hamburgers from a family at the park. Stick Dog, their leader, shoots down proposals to bite the humans' ankles or steal their car. The dogs' goal may not be admirable, but it makes sense: These dogs don't live with families and are fending for themselves. The silly humor is gentle and kind, making this a good choice for young children.

Community Reviews

leah1510-proman
leah1510-proman Adult
November 14, 2018
age 6+

IDK

I think this is a good book and other people should get it because it is a really funny and cool book. Whenever I started the book I did not wanna quit reading it so I kept on reading it until it ended. So I think other people should get it and read it to no matter what age.

This title has:

Educational value
Great messages
Great role models
See all 1 parent review

What's the Story?

Stick Dog lives happily on his own in an empty pipe under a highway. One day the summer wind brings with it the intoxicating smell of hamburgers being grilled at a nearby park. Stick Dog leads his friends on a quest to get their paws on those burgers. Their adventure is interrupted by one thing after another: a pesky squirrel, a missing dog, a tasty appetizer, and the challenge of agreeing on a sound plan to swipe the burgers from an unsuspecting family.

\ \

Is It Any Good?

The visual and narrative style of STICK DOG is similar to those of the Diary of a Wimpy Kid and Big Nate series, but without their occasional bite. The canine companions -- Stick Dog, Karen, Mutt, a poodle named Poo-Poo, and a spotted dog named Stripes -- are sweet and loyal friends. The story is a silly romp that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy.
Ethan Long's stick-figure illustrations are charming adaptations of original artwork by author Tom Watson. The publisher recommends this for ages 8 and up, but this is definitely skewed to a younger set just beginning chapter books. The goofy style and simple writing are ideally suited to young readers -- older children may find it a little too simplistic and rambling.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about how Stick Dog is similar in style to Big Nate and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Why do you think this storytelling style is so popular with kids?
  • The dogs do a lot of brainstorming and work together in pursuit of burgers. Stick Dog is clearly in charge, but without being bossy. What makes him a good leader?
  • Learn how to draw Stick Dog at the series website, which also offers pictures to download, a quiz, and free downloadable picture books by the author.

Book Details

Our Editors Recommend

Themes & Topics

Browse titles with similar subject matter.

  • Cartoon picture of a dog and mouse
    Cats, Dogs, and Mice
    See all
  • Cartoon hands high fiving
    Friendship
    See all

Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.

See how we rate