WHAT'S UP, PUP?

Dogs “speak” in body language—literally!

Sounds are involved in canine communications, certainly, but dogs mostly employ a series of movements to express themselves to guardians and other dogs, and they ingeniously use body parts—eyes, ears, paws, noses, faces, tongues, butts, legs, and tails—to say what they want to say. Additionally, where dogs happen to be at any given moment and the circumstances they find themselves in also figure into how pooches relay important messages. Dogs have much to tell us, and this book clarifies the basics of pupspeak effectively and humorously, getting its points across in simple, albeit clunky, verse. When necessary to make the rhyme scheme and rhythm work—and to enhance child friendliness—some words are occasionally substituted for familiar vocabulary; e.g., waggers for tails and sniffers for noses. Different type sizes and some words set in all capitals heighten visual interest. The lively, colorful illustrations have child appeal and feature frisky pups of various colors, sizes, and breeds; one particular large, yellow, curly-haired, red-leashed pet pooch plays a starring role. Stylized-looking humans are diverse in terms of race and age. Endpapers present an assortment of jaunty dogs “speaking.” Backmatter includes an author’s note, an explanation of the dog language used in the book, dog facts, and a bibliography. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

An upbeat reminder that canine conversations are rich with meaning.