This Book Just Ate My Dog!

Even before it’s opened this is a book that demands participation from the reader, for what child can resist these words on the blurb?: ‘Wanted. Nice reader to show this naughty book who’s boss. Please help!’

Naughty book? That is something of an understatement for this volume actually devours Bella’s dog as she’s taking him out for a walk. One minute she’s strolling happily along holding its lead and the next – well, she’s still clutching the lead firmly but the actual dog has vanished right down the gutter of the book. Not only that but when Ben comes along and helpfully offers to investigate he meets the same fate. So does the emergency dog rescue vehicle and those belonging to the fire brigade and the Police. Bella decides it’s time to take things into her own hands but after a page turn and a resounding BURP, she too disappears down the gutter. However, this young miss is not one to give up easily. Suddenly out pops a note detailing instructions to us readers about how to facilitate her escape and, of course, that of the book’s other victims. Instructions followed … Normality restored thereafter? That all depends …

A hilariously hazardous story that so cleverly exploits the structure of the book itself; it’s perfect for sharing with a largish group or enjoying one to one. Totally involving, completely satisfying, with cute illustrations and a great final twist in the tail.