My Pet Wants a Pet

A familiar conceit--a child begs a parent for a pet--takes a humorously absurd turn when that pet, a frisky puppy, wants (and gets) a pet of his own, an orange kitten. "Truth be told, the boy was surprised at this choice," writes Broach (The Wolf Keeper). " 'Dogs chase cats, ' he told the puppy." Before long, the kitten decides she also wants "something of her very own" to take care of, and adopts a bird, who then takes in a worm that gets a pet flea. By this point, the boy's mother, who has begrudgingly acquiesced to each new creature, is out of patience: "That flea is the pet of the pet of the pet of the pet of your pet!" Barclay's simple, cheery ink-and-watercolor pictures foreshadow each adoption and emphasize the joy shared by the boy and the many pets, if not by Mom. Broach's language is similarly straightforward as she underscores the responsibilities and rewards of caring for another and the expansive possibilities of family. Ages 4-7. Author's agent: Edward Necarsulmer IV, Dunow, Carlson & Lerner. Illustrator's agent: Lori Nowicki, Painted Words. (Mar.)

PreS-Gr 2-There was a boy who wanted a pet. He begged and begged for a puppy of his own to take care of and do fun things with. The boy's mom finally relents and get the boy a puppy. He and puppy are such good companions that the boy decides his pet needs a pet. Thus begins a whole chain of pet acquisitions in the boy's house. This sweet story with beautifully vivid illustrations demonstrates how caring for others leads to personal happiness. While the story structure and repetition are similar to many classic children's tales, this book's kind message and colorful illustrations set it apart from the rest. VERDICT A winning choice for storytime and family sharing.--Nicole Detter-Smith, Homestead High School, IN

"This sweet story with beautifully vivid illustrations demonstrates how caring for others leads to personal happiness. A winning choice for storytime and family sharing."—School Library Journal

"Barclay's illustrations are jaunty and cartoonlike, reminiscent of the work of Richard Scarry, with all characters—two-legged, four-legged, or no-legged—having a fantastic time playing and chasing each other. . . Great comedy throughout, with an inspiring closer."—Booklist

"Barclay's simple, cheery ink-and-watercolor pictures emphasize the joy shared by the boy and the many pets . . . Broach's language is similarly straightforward as she underscores the responsibilities and rewards of caring for another and the expansive possibilities of family."—Publishers Weekly

"From Broach and Barclay comes a story about the affection that grows between living beings who care for one another. . . . A sweet choice for a simple story that parents and children will enjoy laughing at together."—Kirkus Reviews

"Warm and funny."—The Horn Book