Friday, March 28, 2008

Widget


Well, even though it's been a couple of days, I don't really have a theme. After the five-day monster marathon, I guess I just don't have it in me.

Widget, by Lyn Rossiter McFarland and illustrated by Jim McFarland, is a tale of genetic confusion. Widget is a stray dog who is cold and hungry. He comes across a warm house with warm beds and food inside, but it is occupied by a nice lady and six very imposing cats.

In order to earn a spot Widget has to do some quick thinking. He does his best cat impressions. When the cats puff up and hiss, so does Widget. After Widget purrs, plays with a toy mouse and uses the little box, the cats are confused and warily allow him a place.

Over time Widget begins to fit in so well, sometimes even he forgets that he is a dog. Until one day when the nice lady needs help. Meowing doesn't do it. After Widget begins to bark, all of the cats, in a reversal of the theme, bark too and save the day.

Kids will love the silliness of a dog acting like a cat. Beware, however, if you have a dog. Don't let the kids torment your poor pooch trying to reenact the story.

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