A Day, a Dog

Rating:
Summary: Truly unique and thought provoking
Review: A book with only 4 words from start to finish, yet it's as thought provoking and as powerful as a novel. I recommend this book to any person of any age. Children will enjoy the drawings and just may get more of the direct message than adults that have learned to put life into neat little categories. A harsh, natural story of an abandoned dog that must make do. Beautiful artwork, clever pacing, just enough wonderful gesture drawing to convey exactly what this artist wants. A perfect work of art. This book has a high level of draftsmanship and the ability to evoke potent empathy. A rare and unique find that you could hand to anyone in any culture and the positive message will grab them. This form of picture book causes the reader to use their own hearts and minds between every beautiful drawing. Many thanks to the artist for such an honest book, I applaud you, please create more.

Rating:
Summary: Unforgettable!
Review: A Day, a dog is an award-winning book. It's not exactly the book you would READ. It is a book with no words. But just by looking at the beautiful pictures you will understand it. I thought it was a wonderful book, and I think you should read it too! For ages 3-8.

Rating:
Summary: Unforgettable!
Review: A Day, a Dog packs an emotional wallop that will have you thinking about it long after you close it. The powerful drawings prove that you do not need a written word to make a statement. Maybe because I do love animals and especially dogs that the story of a stray cruelly tossed out of a car and fending for itself really moved me or the other thought-provoking feelings I got from it of loneliness, searching and finding a place in life that is safe. I absolutely adore this book and will cherish it for years to come.

Rating:
Summary: A rare find...
Review: I have three young boys and a large picture book collection. Every night we sit close and spend quality time reading and discussing stories. It was by chance, in a Children's Lit course, that I came across this book. What a rare find! A Day, a Dog tells the story of an abandoned dog and his... search for home. The story is completely wordless and "told" in charcoal sketches. What makes this such a great book is not the emotional impact it will have on you, but the following discussion that it demands. Responsibility, caring, friendship, commitment, and loyalty are just a few of the character traits that are easily discussed and follow naturally from the story. It is my belief that the story ultimately has a positive conclusion. See for yourself, you will not be disappointed. Furthermore, I believe that one day this book will go out of print and you will be fortunate to own such a treasure. Buy it, "read" it, and discuss it. Enjoy...

Rating:
Summary: A TRUE Picture Book
Review: I'm not nearly as eloquent as other reviewers. I've been collecting children's picture books for over 25 years because I enjoy the power of the illustration to tell the story. This title is one of the most simple, yet powerful I've come across. I've already added it to my personal list of 25 favorite picture books...it's even in the top ten. You don't comprehend this book, you "feel" it. No words are needed to understand what's happening, no words are needed to sense the fear and desloation of abandonment and no words are needed to marvel at the power of an out stretched hand. Only Peter Spier's "Noah's Ark" has had a similar affect on me simply through the power of illustration and art. That title won a Caldecott Award in the the mid-70's. While I don't believe "a day, a dog" qualifies for this award since it was first published outside of the United States, it ought to be acknowledged in some way for it's impact and contribution to the field of "picture" books. Buy it and share it with someone.

Rating:
Summary: A Sad, But Extremely Necessary Book
Review: So many reviewers have praised this book so eloquently, I don't know that I have much to add in that sense. But I would like to address some reviewers' concerns that this book is inappropriate for children because it is too sad or disturbing. In this story, a helpless animal is cruelly abandoned. Dogs are pack animals; there is no more miserable state for them than being alone. We SHOULD feel sad about this story, and children shouldn't be sheltered from some of the sad realities of life. If they read this story, and empathize with the dog, well then, they will think twice in the future about doing such an inhumane thing to their pets. Parents should not hesitate to give this book to their children; however, they should share the experience with the child, and be present to process any thoughts or feelings that the child has. With younger children, parents may discuss how animals are entitled to kindness and consideration, just like human beings. With older children, the subjects of responsibility, loneliness, and finding one's place in the world may come up. In any case, this book will cause children to think, and families to discuss important issues. And that is NEVER a bad thing.

Rating:
Summary: Great for teaching writing
Review: Wordless picture book- story of a dog who is abandoned at the beginning of the book. Many events and emotional illustrations. Great for teaching students to add voice and details to stories.

Rating:
Summary: Great for teaching writing
Review: Wordless picture book- story of a dog who is abandoned at the beginning of the book. Many events and emotional illustrations. Great for teaching students to add voice and details to stories.