AHOYTY-TOYTY
by Helen Stephens & illustrated by Helen Stephens
Two pampered pups learn a lesson about friendship is this sweet and simple story. On a cruise with their owners, Miss Loopy and Miss Froopy-Frou-Frou, the pair, Victor and Butch, encounters Lord Laa-Di-Dah, the Captain’s dog. Victor and Butch think Lord Laa-Di-Dah’s got it going on, and they imitate his moves. In a sunny, full-bleed spread, which appears to be rendered in oil, the two lap dogs, practice “charming smiles.” Victor, the perky white terrier, wears a plaid suit, a blue bib, and a painful perma-grin. Squat, smug Butch, however, seems to have the part down pat. A dinner invitation from Lord Laa-Di-Dah makes him smile even more. But what about Victor? It’s a scenario played out in lunchrooms every day, one young readers will surely recognize. Those grappling with similar situations will appreciate this tale’s satisfying conclusion. (Picture book. 3-7)