Big Mean Mike

Big Mean Mike, a dog whose spiked collar and leather jacket signal that he's a serious tough guy, is mystified when wee, innocent, fuzzy bunnies start appearing in his big, mean car. He's forced to appear in public with them and must endure the scorn of his friends: "Didn't figure you for the cute and cuddly type," one jeers. But Big Mean Mike rises to the occasion without losing any of his meanness: "I can hang out with whoever I want! I like these bunnies.... And they're adorable! Any of you got a problem with that?" Magoon's (Chopsticks) blocky Mike and his souped-up ride are appropriately dynamic: Mike's toothy snarl is often front and center, and his muscle car has orange flames and an exhaust system that belches smoke. Knudsen (Argus) offers an uncompromisingly macho version of the defend-your-friends theme, and its cultural references (combat boots, gym membership) and the inherent humor in seeing the bunnies charm their way into Mike's heart will keep readers attentive--and laughing. Ages 4-8. Agent: Jodi Reamer, Writers House. Illustrator's agent: Rebecca Sherman, Writers House. (Aug.)

Copyright 2012 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

K-Gr 2--Big Mean Mike is a dog whose image is not supposed to include fuzzy bunny friends. As the toughest canine in the neighborhood, he wears silver spikes and combat boots and drives a big mean car that makes a lot of mean noises. One afternoon he finds a fluffy bunny in his car and leaves the sad rabbit on the sidewalk eating dust as he peels away. The persistent animal keeps returning with friends until the day of the Monster Truck Show when there are four incredibly endearing bunnies gazing at him. Dropping his macho image for just a moment, Mike gives in to their sweet, pleading faces and takes them in to watch the show. Knudsen has created a tough guy with a soft heart who ultimately chooses his friends despite what others may think and still manages to be himself. Magoon's bunnies are digitally rendered with soft, fuzzy edges but are just as tough on the inside as Mike is on the outside when they growl at the crossbones-adorned bullies picking on their large companion for hanging out with uncool friends. Readers will fall for the adorable bunnies and cheer Mike's new devotion to them. Share this doggedly worthy read-aloud during your favorite friendship-themed storyhours for a lot of growls and laughs.--Kristine M. Casper, Huntington Public Library, NY

Copyright 2012 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

It's rare to find a book that will appeal to both the lovers of monster trucks and the kids who go into raptures at the sight of a fuzzy little critter; this is that book.
—Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

Knudsen offers an uncompromisingly macho version of the defend-your-friends theme, and its cultural references (combat boots, gym membership) and the inherent humor in seeing the bunnies charm their way into Mike's heart will keep readers attentive—and laughing.
—Publishers Weekly

Even the toughest readers will crumble under the appeal of these bunnies.
—Kirkus Reviews

Readers will fall for the adorable bunnies and cheer Mike's new devotion to them. Share this doggedly worthy read-aloud during your favorite friendship-themed storyhours for a lot of growls and laughs.
—School Library Journal

Colorful illustrations are both appropriately tough and tender. Mean and cute not only do mix; they match in delightful ways.
—Library Media Connection

The eternal struggle between tough and tender gets a workout in this adorable book.
—Booklist