RUFFLES AND THE NEW GREEN THING

WHAT can that green thing be?

Ruffles, a white puppy with a dark circle around one eye, has survived the red sweater and a herd of affectionate kittens, but he is completely mystified by the green thing in his food dish. Now, there’s plenty that Ruffles loves. (Melling enumerates the little pooch’s many passions, from howling, eating, and fetching to chewing, running, and sleeping.) But the bumpy, new green object in his dish (which many readers will recognize as broccoli)? No, he does not like it! Ralph, a Dalmatian pal whom Ruffles very much admires, visits. (Another page lists the things Ruffles and Ralph enjoy doing together.) Ralph takes one look at the green thing and…takes a huge bite! “If Ralph can try the new green thing…then Ruffles can, too!” So Ruffles “nibbles…and gnaws…and chews” (a slew of other synonyms ensues) the green thing. And what is it? “Delicious!” Amending the list of things he loves, Ruffles adds Ralph (of course) and “new things” (except for the strange orange object now in his bowl). Melling’s third outing with this expressive, inquisitive puppy is delightful; neatly outlined sequential pencil vignettes of Ruffles poking at the broccoli cleverly bring to life his consternation. Youngsters reluctant to eat their veggies may identify, but they will absolutely appreciate Ruffles and Ralph’s adorable antics. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

Perfect for picky eaters and puppy lovers.