Rufferella

Normally I am a great fan of traditional tale derivatives but I have to admit I found this one just too silly. Poor Ruff is the object of fairy-tale lover Diamante's attempts at emulating a fairy godmother and soon her long-suffering dog, clad in a frilly dress, sporting ribbons, jewels and make-up, is receiving lessons in etiquette. At her first 'ball' - a birthday party - her singing is a big hit and leads to a royal command performance where sausages prove her downfall ... once a dog, always a dog! A longish read with plenty to 'paw' over and laugh at in the detailed scenes. I suspect that this is a book that will appeal much more to readers and listeners of six to eight than it does to me.