The Twelve Days of Christmas Dogs

This is a great read aloud book with lots of opportunities for discussion about types of dogs, learning to count, etc. The illustrations are hilarious. I love it!

Far from the treacly offerings we have come to expect and dread during the holiday season, this book in fact reminds me in many ways of the early work of Alice and Martin Provensen. It's for kids, but the level of detail and thought Ms. Conahan puts into every drawing will hold the interest of older children and the adults who invariably will be reading it over and over again. We look forward to her next effort with great anticipation.

From Kirkus Reviews: "Conahan reworks the well-known words to the traditional Christmas carol to feature a canine crowd ... Children who like to find all the items in each category on a page will enjoy counting up the canines, each illustrated with flair in watercolor and ink. The new words to the old song provide a catchy alternative for musically inclined dog lovers, and there's a marmalade cat on every page to keep the cat lovers happy as well." From School Library Journal: "On the first day of Christmas, my best friend gave to me a pug puppy under the tree. Each subsequent day there is an increase both in the number of mutts and breeds, and in the comical mayhem that ensues.... Children will love poring over all the lively and outrageous cartoon watercolors and will enjoy discovering the golden tabby that appears on every page. This tale is best for sharing one-on-one or reading independently because of the detailed art and side story line presented in bubbles as conversation among the three friends. Sure to be popular. - M.W." Article from the Portland Oregonian newspaper: http://www.oregonlive.com/printer/printer.ssf?/base/living/113270731517410.xml & coll=7