Barkus by Patricia MacLachlan and illustrated by Marc Boutavant
This is a fun beginning chapter book that is the first of a new series by Patricia MacLachlan, who often includes animals in her books. Reminiscent of Henry and Mudge, this book is about a little girl named Nicky and her new companion, Barkus, a charming big brown dog. The book consists of five short chapters, each with a story about the pair that is narrated by Nicky. In the first chapter, Nicky’s uncle is traveling overseas, so he leaves his dog Barkus with Nicky and her parents. In succeeding chapters, Barkus goes to school with Nicky, has a birthday party with the neighboring dogs, rescues a kitten whom the family adopts, and spends a night camping with Nicky and the new kitten. The stories are full of energy, showing us the joy and exuberance of children and dogs, with vibrant, happy illustrations.
