The Poky Little Puppy
by Janette Sebring Lowrey
illustrated by Gustav Tenggren
Date: 1942
Publisher: Golden Books
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 24
Format: e-book
Source: library
One of the original 12 Little Golden Books, The Poky Little Puppy has sold nearly 15 million copies since 1942, making it one of the most popular children’s books of all time. Now this curious little puppy is ready to win the hearts and minds of a new generation of kids.
(synopsis from Goodreads)
This might be the bestselling picture book of all time, but I think it's starting to show its age. It might be sacrilege to even suggest, but I think it could use some updates.
I have no issue with the pictures (which are cute) or the basic story (which is repetitive, but fairly entertaining). My unease stems from the feeding of desserts to dogs... especially the chocolate custard. That's a dangerous idea to be giving little kids, as chocolate is toxic to dogs. Besides, dogs don't need rice pudding or strawberry shortcake, either. I would love to see an updated version where the puppies are eager for their treat of peanut butter or beef jerky (you know, something more appropriate and that won't potentially kill them).
So I can't wholeheartedly recommend this one. It's fun to read as an adult for nostalgia, but I'd be very hesitant to give it to a child without sitting down and explaining that it's very dangerous to give Fido chocolate.
Premise: 2/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 3/5
Illustrations: 3/5
Originality: 3/5
Enjoyment: 2/5
Overall: 2.5 out of 5
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