My Perfect Pup

My Perfect Pup by Sue Walker, illustrated by Anil Tortop (New Frontier)

HB RRP $24.99

ISBN 978-1-92505-960-1

Reviewed by Jenny Heslop

Milly and Max are looking for a puppy. One Milly can primp and preen. One Max can teach tricks to. When they see a tiny puppy at the pet shop they think have found their perfect pup. But has this little puppy found his perfect family?

This delightful story turns the idea of picking a perfect pet on its head. Here, it is the dog which picks the family he wants. And it is very clear why this family is more suited to him than his previous family.

The language the author uses is clear and simple, appropriate for the three to six year old age group. ‘...and Max’s tricks were always just a little too tricky’. It is also lively, ‘Collie pups bounced, and Pointer pups pranced, but the tiniest pup waited politely’ lyrical and fun to read.

The illustrations are bright and bold and full of humour. They enhance the text, telling parts of the story the text does not. This brings even more character to the dogs and children, adding to the appeal and helping to make this an engaging and entertaining picture book for preschoolers.