THIS PUP IS STUCK!

One dig-happy pup has trouble listening to directions and winds up getting in too deep.

Cheddar, Puddles, and Dig Doug are back in this latest board book in Shea and Won’s Adurable series. When Miss Polly assigns the truck-driving dogs the task of making a swimming spot, Dig Doug ignores directions and gets stuck inside the deep hole he created. The problem-solving pups work together to help Dig Doug drive his way out. The message here is clear: Listening is important, especially when it comes to safety. When Dig Doug frets that he’s not a good puppy, Miss Polly carefully reminds him that he’s very good at digging but needs to remember that “other things are also important.” The story concludes with the pups taking a swim even though readers never see them finish their work. Won’s adorable doggies in their sunglasses and trucks are clear toddler fodder. Little readers will enjoy the illustrations of Dig Doug digging deep into the dirt, passing dino bones, bunnies, a mole holding a lantern, and even a treasure chest. Another page provides an interesting shift in perspective, showing the view from above as the other dogs look down at Dig Doug in the hole. This story lends itself to conversations about paying attention, working together, and making mistakes. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Toddlerhood lessons in an “adurable” puppy package.