Buster and the Baby

Reviewed by: Margy Soule - Coffin Elementary School, Brunswick, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: January 10, 2018

Review

This book has a winning combination. It is a story with heart and charm, repetition, animated expressions on both baby and dog, and satisfying ending. While perfect for preschoolers, kindergarten children can also enjoy the naughtiest and spirit of the little dog and its toddler master. Amy Hest knows how to create a warm family scene without too much sweetness or too much silliness. Polly Dunbar matches her crayon and paint digitally produced illustrations with the feisty, fun, and loving plot. Baby and Buster dog scamper throughout the house. The listener, viewer is treated to variations of "Thump. goes his heart. Thump. thump, thump! Then...CHAAA! Then out of the shadows she comes. Squealing and whirling and bumping his nose. Go Buster. Go Buster. Go Buster, Go!" throughout the day with different family members until the end of the day until baby and dog are snuggled together. "Thump go their hearts, thump, thump, thump. All through the night."

Overall Book Score: excellent