Review by Booklist Review
This bilingual early chapter book follows a boy's experiences adopting a shelter dog and teaching it basic commands. José knows that the one thing his family is missing is a pet dog. Every day he asks, "When can we get un perro?" but one morning his dad surprises him by saying, "We go today." The whole family goes to the animal shelter, where they see dogs of all sizes and colors, but it's a white dog with brown patches that catches José's eye. As he approaches the pup, it suddenly smiles! José has found his dog. Back at home, José names his new dog Feliz (Happy) and tries asking it to do some simple tricks (siéntate, échate), but to no avail. A funny situation leads to the revelation that Feliz only understands commands in English, so José gets to work teaching the Spanish equivalents. Divided into four heavily illustrated chapters, the book offers readers support through nicely aligned artwork and text that features repetition, context clues, and a list of the Spanish words and phrases used in the story.
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Kirkus Book Review
A young Latine boy finally gets to rescue the dog of his dreams, but training can be a challenge in two languages. Like many children, José has been dreaming of having a pet of his own, specifically un perro, a dog. Like any good owner, José promptly begins training his new canine companion but soon realizes his rescue mutt, Feliz, knows only words in English. This is a problem because in José's home everyone speaks both Spanish and English. José and Feliz must rise to the challenge; fortunately, treats and snuggles are great motivators. The narrative uses Spanish words and phrases throughout ("perros blancos," "¡Yo quiero este!" "¡Sientate!"), usually with English context clues for understanding. This is complex vocabulary for an early reader, and the shifting in phonics from English to Spanish will be challenging for true beginners; the book is best suited for intermediate to advanced readers in dual-language classrooms or homes. Much like Feliz, however, it is sure to find a loving (and bilingual) home. Cheerful illustrations complement the text, helping readers make sense of the narrative. While José and his mother are darker-skinned, his father and sister are lighter-skinned. Cuándo quieras un perro feliz, look no further. (glossary of Spanish-English words) (Early reader. 6-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
