Review: Lulu and the Dog from the Sea by Hilary McKay

SUMMARY FROM NETGALLEY.COM:

Lulu loves animals. When Lulu goes on vacation, she finds there's a stray dog living on the beach. Everyone in the town thinks the dog is trouble. But Lulu is sure he just needs a friend. And that he's been waiting for someone just like her. The second book in this early chapter book series for young animal-lovers.

MY TAKE:

Lulu's love of animals may not be relate-able to everyone, but it's hard not to like how she is kind to all animals, even the animals that nobody else really likes.

In Lulu and the Dog from the Sea, Lulu, her friend Mellie and Lulu's family go on vacation. When they get to their beach house, they find a wild dog that has taken a liking to stealing food from previous renters and other beach-goers.

I like books that are set on beaches and during vacations since it seems to automatically give you a relaxed feeling. Since this is a children's book, the plot is presented quickly and it moves along quickly. There was a part near the end where I was reminded of Lassie, but otherwise, this book is pretty original and isn't all that predictable.

The good thing about this book is that the focus isn't solely on Lulu. We also get the wild dog's story and what he's thinking and feeling. I didn't like that the dog was a thief and Lulu didn't even so much as flinch at the thought or tried to correct that behavior the way Caesar Milan or any other dog trainer might have. The other characters aren't particularly remarkable, although Lulu's father had some funny moments.

The illustrations were also quite good since it looks vintage but not too old-fashioned.

Thanks to NetGalley and Albert Whitman & Compan for the e-ARC. Publication date of Lulu and the Dog from the Sea is on March 1, 2013.

THE GOOD:

1. Lulu has a kind heart.
2. You get to see the dog's story and feelings.
3. The illustrations are charming.

THE BAD:

1. Lulu can be stubborn and annoying sometimes.

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

Sam ate biscuits and pizza and jam drops and brown bread and cream cheese sandwiches, and the dog from the sea watched every bite.

READ IT IF:

1. Your child likes animals.
2. Your child is looking for a short beach read.
3. You are looking for a book that will keep your child busy for awhile.

RATING:


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