The Pigeon Wants a Puppy! (Pigeon)

Unforgettably introduced in Don't Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! Willems's id-with-wings reveals that he's wanted a puppy forever.... At least since last Tuesday and swears he's ready to assume the responsibility of pet ownership (I promise I'll water it once a month). But he soon discovers that reality, well, it doesn't bite, exactly, but it has daunting teeth and slobbers. While Pigeon is still a marvel of visual expression, Willems this time out has blunted his character's repertoire of persuasive tactics and with the pleading dialed down, there's not much else to enjoy. There aren't enough examples of Pigeon's quick-thinking tactical maneuvers or the comic punch that comes from the cumulative onslaught. The core thrill of this series has always been offering kids the chance to experience pleading from the parental point of view and exercise the awesome power to say no. This time, the response may simply be, Whatever. Ages 2-6. (Apr.)

Copyright 2008 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

The incorrigible bird returns in his fourth full-length romp. This time, Pigeon voices another common childhood dream: he wants a puppy. And he wants it NOW. He even promises to take care of it: "I'll water it once a month." He argues his case so forcefully that a puppy appears, but it's more than he expects: "The teeth! The hair! That wet nose!...I mentioned the teeth, right?" So he sets his sights on a different pet. Kids will love this perfectly paced picture book, which offers both the expected (breaking the fourth wall, Pigeon's classic temper tantrum) and a new twist (Pigeon actually gets what he wants? Impossible!). Willems's hilariously expressive illustrations and engaging text are cinematic in their interplay. Maybe kids won't appreciate the genius behind it the way adults will, but that won't stop them from asking for this book again and again. Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

Copyright 2008 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.