THE MCNIFFICENTS

Miniature schnauzer Lord Tennyson is in charge of the six rambunctious McNiff children.

This precocious dog has his paws filled teaching the children to mind their manners, curb their fighting, and ride their bikes. The children’s bumbling father directs community theater productions, and their absent-minded mother is distracted by her gardening and baking—which leaves this accomplished canine in charge. As if six children weren’t enough, the family, who live in a pink New Hampshire farmhouse, also have two bunnies, six chickens, and a snake. It is summer vacation for the McNiffs, who are cued White, and chaos reigns, especially between the two oldest girls, Mary, 11, and Annie, 13. In fact, their mutual animosity is venomous; some readers may be distressed by the meanness on display and find it difficult to feel compassion for them, while others may relate all too well. With bed-wetting, a stolen diary, and graffiti involved, even the Sibling Council cannot repair their fractured relationship. Lord Tennyson must find new tricks to bring the children back together into a united pack before summer’s end. When Pearl, one of the younger McNiffs who will be entering kindergarten, goes missing, the drama switches gears as Lord Tennyson truly proves his dedication and value to his family. The writing is strong, and Lord Tennyson has an arch, competent manner in keeping with his professional role model, Mary Poppins. Final art not seen.

Chaotically entertaining.