Big Black Dog

The only one who understands that Big Black Dog is not as scary as he looks is his friend Emmeline, a fluffy poodle who is the proprietor of the local tea shop. The mayor has made BBD Chief Burglar Catcher – rather a sinecure because BBD looks so scary that there’s never any crime. But BBD is actually a quivering mass underneath. Scared of just about everything, the idea of actually catching a burglar is complete anathema to him. When a burglar actually does appear and BBD is expected to do something, he hides behind the sofa. But on discovering that Emmeline is in danger, he finds courage and rescues her from Bad Cat Bling the Burglar King. He becomes a hero and learns to face his fears. We learn that people are not always what they appear on the outside. The illustrations are super, full of details that will make the most bored parent chuckle. Text is integrated with pictures to the benefit of both, and bright colours abound. Huge fun.