Love Is My Favorite Thing (Plum #1)

PreS-Gr 3—Plum, an endearing whippet, poodle, and Jack Russell mix, joyfully informs readers about all of the things she loves. Treats, the park, her neighbors: she loves everything (except rain). But what she loves most is love itself. Most days her family reciprocates her feelings just fine, but in her quest to do the things that make her happy, she ends up doing a few things she shouldn't. Several incidents end with a scolding and the exasperated remark "Oh, Plum!" which makes the pooch worry that they won't forgive her. For most of the book this cheerful dog is surrounded by other individuals in colorful contexts, but in her moment of doubt, she's alone and in the dark. Even with watercolors and pencils giving the spread a gentle touch, at that moment readers empathize with her. But then the family members open the door to collect and reassure her, eliciting a sigh of relief. Dog owners will recognize the authenticity in Plum's voice, that live-in-the-moment attitude, the inability to understand why certain actions are prohibited (hence the lack of explanations in the text), and that particular look that says, "Please love me." VERDICT An adorable lesson in love from a big-hearted little dog.—Rachel Forbes, Oakville Public Library, Ontario, Canada

Copyright 2015 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Clark's rambunctious dog, Plum, whose exploits have been chronicled on the author's blog as well as in a recent adult title, Plumdog, makes her picture book debut. Working in watercolor and pencil, Clark exuberantly captures Plum's zest for life, whether it's playing with the kids next door or causing trouble (like diving into the pond at the park) that tests his family's patience. But unconditional love is unconditional love, and even at the height of Plum's post-mischief worry--"Would they ever love me again?" she wonders, stuck in time-out--the answer to that question is never in doubt. Ages 3-5. (Nov.)

Copyright 2015 Publishers Weekly, LLC Used with permission.

"Clark captures a dog's exuberance and love of the simple things. . . . And no child will fail to understand the dog's conundrum: she knows what she should do and yet feels compelled to do the wrong thing anyway. Fur, ears, and posture speak volumes. Dog lovers will especially 'LOVE' this, and readers who can't get enough can follow the real-life Plum in the author's blog."—Kirkus Reviews

"Clark exuberantly captures Plum's zest for life, whether it's playing with the kids next door or causing trouble that tests her family's patience. But unconditional love is unconditional love, and even at the height of Plum's post-mischief worry—'Would they ever love me again?' she wonders, stuck in time-out—the answer to that question is never in doubt."—Publishers Weekly

"Little ones will easily identify with Plum, who wants to be good but also finds some things irresistible. Clark, who blogs about her real dog, Plum, presents a book, jauntily illustrated in watercolor and colored pencil, that brims with good humor, recognizable lessons, and, of course, lots of love. The oversize format—eye-catching spreads and pages of vignettes—makes this a great choice for story hours."—Booklist

"Children will fall in love with Plummie and laugh at her mishaps."—School Library Connection