The Children’s Book Review | November 7, 2014
Dogs Don’t Look Both Ways: A Primer on Unintended Consequences
By Jane Hanser
Age Range: 8-100+
Paperback: 160 pages
Publisher: Ivy Books (March 18, 2014)
ISBN: 978-0991514908
What to expect: Dogs, Labradors, Pet Care, Animal Hospital
With a humorous voice and multiple anecdotes, Joey, a chocolate Labrador who enjoys digging and escaping beyond his home’s fence, provides an entertaining narration for both children and adults. Readers are taken on Joey’s life journey from puppyhood to mischievous shenanigans that lead to serious injury, all the way through to recovery and a deeper connection with his human family.
Jane Hanser is the author behind Joey’s endearing voice and she also happens to be Joey’s mom. Hanser appears throughout the book, and is quite cleverly only ever referred to as Mom. She weaves in knowledge about different dog breeds and pedigree that really help readers to grasp Joey’s traits and that also ultimately lead to a greater understanding between Joey and his pet owners. There are also black-and-white photographs from Joey’s real-life experiences scattered throughout the pages—full color photographs are included in the e-book version.
As readers experience firsthand about Joey’s love of digging, exploring, the exhilaration of running off leash with Dad, his appreciation of help from the doctors at the animal hospital after receiving life-threating injuries from being hit by a car, the ultimate message is clear: understand and facilitate your pet’s natural tendencies, because allowing your dog to be himself can lead to a long, healthy and safe life.
Dogs Don’t Look Both Ways is a well-edited book and a great choice for soon-to-be pet owners, as well as dog lovers of all ages. Any pet owner that has ever nursed an ill dog will have full appreciation for Hanser’s retelling of her family’s personal journey as dog owners, through Joey’s voice. Young pet owners with dogs that are suffering from injuries may also find solace and courage within the pages.
Add this book to your collection: Dogs Don’t Look Both Ways: A Primer on Unintended Consequences
About the Author
Jane Hanser is the writer behind the blog www.dogsdontlookbothways.com. Her first book carries the same namesake.
Read The Children’s Book Review’s interview with Jane Hanser.
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