A Little Look-See, 7: Mutts Six

Patrick McDonnell's "Mutts" comic strip is quite an achievement: it's sweet without being cloying, heartwarming without being manipulative, and nostalgic yet always original. His simple yet eloquent artwork achieves a range of emotions; he may be today's most economical cartoonist. Even more remarkably, he earns laughs without resorting to the gross-out humour so prevalent in today's comic world.Twice a year, McDonnell features a week of "Shelter Stories." They're bittersweet and sometimes heartbreaking, and serve as an invaluable public service.I never tire of the adventures of Earl and Mooch. Of course, it helps to be a dog owner and animal lover! But I can't imagine anyone not being won over by McDonnell's lovable gang of "Mutts."

If ever you need to cheer up, all you need do is ...open one of Patrick McDonnells "Mutts" books and read !!! The stories are great, you can almost hear these animals talking out loud. Be carefull though, I find myself laughing right out loud some times. These are great books, I can't wait for the next !!!

Mutts is cute, funny, warm, and every character is a sympathetic one, even Crabby and the guard dog. And of course, the "shelter stories" are guaranteed to touch the stoniest of hearts. In years to come, we will look back and say "How lucky we were, to have a fresh 'Mutts' strip in the papers every morning!" This book's only shortcoming is the presentation of the Sunday strips, which is why I'm glad that the Sunday collections are so beautifuly done.

Patrick McDonnell's wonderful cast of characters are funny, timely and touching. Who couldn't wish for an Earl and Mooch of their own?

Patrick McDonnell continues to do great work. Highly recommended to all.