Benny: An Adventure Story - Hardcover

PreSchool-K-Benny, a multitalented mutt, acts as an assistant to "Brillo the Magician," until he upstages the performer one time too many and is sent packing. In a humorous homage to the bygone days of hobos, Benny rides the rails and sings the blues. The world apparently has little use for a dancing sheep dog, a tiny rope-throwing cattle dog, a plate-juggling kitchen dog, or a guard dog who plays the harmonica. The downtrodden pup has an epiphany as he reaches the big city: "I am Benny! And I will do what I do. And this time, the world shall come to me." On a street corner, his heartfelt harmonica tunes and tap dancing fill his cup with coins and attract the attention of the little girl of Benny's dreams. It is love at first sight for both of them. Readers leave Benny happily ensconced in a lively household as the entire Kelly clan partakes of the communal joys of music, dance, and a good book. Graham's trademark cartoons are particularly vibrant and effective in relating this winsome tale. The large size of the book gives breadth and scope to Benny's search for identity and a sense of belonging. Small visual vignettes contrasted by broader spreads that feature the engagingly rendered Benny poignantly communicate the trials and tribulations of the little dog's odyssey. Youngsters will find plenty to laugh, cry, and think about in this winning offering.
Rosalyn Pierini, San Luis Obispo City-County Library, CA
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Bravo for Benny, the multitalented pooch who gives new meaning to the term "show dog." As assistant to Brillo the Magician, Benny gets his chance to shine on stage, tap-dancing and performing cowboy rope tricks and other feats. But before long the perky pup is stealing the spotlight from his boss and loses his gig. Benny hops a train and treks cross-country trying to find a new home, but he just doesn't fit in anywhere. One can almost hear the strains of "Gotta Dance" when Benny realizes he's compelled to share his gifts with others no matter what. Luckily for Benny, a musical family who can appreciate him happens along-and they have an opening (their meeting warrants a full spread complete with heart frame). As he did in Queenie, Graham once again delivers a dog's-eye-view tale that pulls the heartstrings and elicits giggles. Readers will immediately bond with the shaggy, diminutive star sporting a polka-dot bandanna and top hat. Chipper watercolor-and-ink scenes of Benny hoofing on the boards and escaping from the "Houdini Deathtrap" while playing the harmonica are belly-laugh worthy. Ages 4-7. (July)
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.