Madeline Finn and the Library Dog by Lisa Papp
Meet Madeline, the girl who likes many things, but never, no never reading. The struggle to make sense of the marks on a page is difficult. It becomes especially agonizing when she is asked to read aloud. Her frustration becomes unbearable until one Saturday morning when the public librarian introduces her to a new friend, Bonnie the dog who enjoys sitting and listening. As it turns out, that is precisely what Madeline needs to succeed at reading. |
There is much about Madeline Finn and the Library Dog that is reassuring: soft realistic images with muted page background color are warm and inviting. Her sense of isolation is evident in placement of figures. The face of a classmate making fun of her intensifies her pain. Notice her defiant pose on the title page and her face registering discouragement when she attempts to read, However, it's the images of Madeline and Bonnie sharing a book that tug at one's heartstrings. Papp has captured the wonder on Madeline's face and the patient attention of Bonnie as they read together. |
A group of teens met Miracle, a dog who spends her days visiting with children in schools. They were enchanted with this charming canine and wanted to give back some of the love that she shares with youngsters. They decided to organize a used towel and blanket drive for animals at a local shelter. It was a joyous day when they showed up at the shelter, arms laden with towels and blankets. Miracle, like Bonnie, makes miracles happen in the lives of young children. These teens enjoyed sharing in that miracle. |