December 1, 2010
K-Gr 2-Pierre Le Poof is a pampered poodle. He has everything he could want: a soft pillow, plenty of food, and Miss Murphy, whom he adores. But he misses Sparky and Lou, strays that live in the city park. One lonely day he decides to venture from his safe home to find his friends and bring them back with him. But how will he find them in such a big park? Although the story can stand alone, it makes more sense if readers are familiar with Pierre Le Poof (Orca, 2009). This continuation has less drama because Pierre does not face any great challenge and is never afraid or in danger. The author has created a safe, child-friendly world in which humans are more than happy to provide homes for vagrant pups. The cartoon illustrations, done with watercolor, pen, and pastels, reflect the gentle, upbeat nature of the tale. Pierre's fans will welcome this sequel, but for other children it is of secondary interest.-Donna Cardon, Provo City Library, UT
Copyright 2010 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.
October 1, 2010
Rescued from the streets in Pierre Le Poof! (2009), Pierre enjoys his life of canine comfort with his human companion, Miss Murphy, though the former stray yearns to share his world of riches with his old buddies. He seeks guidance from a desolate doggie authority, aptly named Old Wheezer, to find the strays' current whereabouts. The straightforward plot plods to its obvious conclusion as lonely neighbors unite with abandoned pups. Wholesome musings force both characterization and conclusion: "[Miss Murphy] always said dogs and people belonged together," when referencing the grouchy old neighbor. The unsurprising ending finds all pets in their deserved homes. The brown, bouffant-ed Pierre is appealing, and his desire to rescue friends in need is undeniably praiseworthy. Still, though this lovable hound hero may inspire a fleeting case of puppy love, the predictable plot prevents the creation of a dog-eared classic. (Picture book. 3-6)
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January 1, 2011
This second (and superior) book in the Pierre Le Poof! series finds the pampered poodle longing for his old friends. After he sneaks off to find them, a dog who lives under a bridge gets him thinking about someone else's problems. The economical storytelling and calm illustrations of city dogs with adult owners are satisfying.
(Copyright 2011 by The Horn Book, Incorporated, Boston. All rights reserved.)