Review - Sterling, Best Dog Ever

Sterling, Best Dog Ever
by Aidan Cassie
Date: 2018
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR)
Reading level: C
Book type: picture book
Pages: 40
Format: e-book
Source: library

Sterling the dog has always wanted a home. But no home has ever wanted him. So when Sterling sees a sign on the side of the Butlery Cutlery Company advertising free "shipping to homes around the world," he is determined to become the most terrific fork ever! For what home doesn't need flatware?

Sterling is delivered on time and undamaged to the Gilbert family's front door. He is not, however, what they ordered. . . . But he may be exactly what they need. Here is a humorous, heart-tugging picture book about finding a family who wants you just as you are.

(synopsis from Goodreads)

This book is absolutely adorable! Setting aside for a moment the question of why this poor dog think's he's flatware, this is a story full of heart and a few laughs.

Sterling appears to live at the Butlery Cutlery factory. He seems to have been shipped to other homes before, because he thinks, This time will be different. He's determined to be the best piece of cutlery he can be... because everyone needs cutlery.

But the family is aware that he's clearly a dog, and when the little girl tries to treat him as such, things don't go so well. Forks don't walk on leashes or sit or fetch. And then, when Sterling witnesses the family eating a meal with their fingers, he wonders if they even need forks... which leads to some hilarity when he tries his hand at being other household objects.

Eventually, though, with some love and attention, Sterling realizes that he doesn't need to be something he's not for people to love him. All he needs to be is himself.

The writing is really strong in this one, and the illustrations are lovely (and hilarious). I really can't wait to see what this author/illustrator comes up with next!

Overall, this might be the best picture book I've read so far this year. Recommended to dog lovers, picture-book lovers, and anyone who appreciates cutlery (especially the kind with a wagging tail).

Quotable moment:

Premise: 4/5
Meter: n/a
Writing: 5/5
Illustrations: 5/5
Originality: 5/5

Enjoyment: 5/5

Overall: 4.83 out of 5