Pugs in a Bug

PreS-K—One pug sets off for the Pooch Parade in his VW Beetle and along the way he picks up five more pugs. The rhyming text is set in a fun font and often changes colors, emphasizing repeating lines and setting up a chant for a read-aloud. When the pugs finally reach the parade, they join a multitude of other dog breeds in all sorts of different vehicles, and readers are sure to enjoy the silliness of huskies pulling sleds, sheepdogs in a Jeep, bulldogs in cabs, etc. The color and details in the illustrations make this an eye-catching book. When children look closely, they will discover all the accessories the animals have, from the poodle's retro sunglasses to the sheepdog's top hat. The illustrations are the best part of this tale, capturing humor and vibrancy. This is a fun book, but the structure is a little off. It begins as a counting book up to the number six, and then the counting element stops midway. The chanting portion is a bit strained because it changes on every page (only portions of it are repeated throughout the whole book), which will make participation confusing for listeners. Not a first purchase.—Lora Van Marel, Orland Park Public Library, IL