book review: Fast Dog, Cool Cat, Hot Dog and a Time for Action, by Arnold Haber

Fast Dog, Cool Cat, Hot Dog and A Time For Action - by Arnold Haber

Illustrations by Audrey Walker

Published by Dyllie Productions, Playa del Rey, California, May 2012

What DOES he think right now? Many a dog owner wondered about that when observing the family dog. Adopting a retired racing hound adds even new dimensions to this question. In Arnold Haber's wonderful little tale we first meet Comet, a retired greyhound who changes a life at the tracks for a loving family home. We are onlookers, taking a sneak peek into a dog's thoughts while witnessing Comet as he discovers the wonders of everyday life and all those little mundane things we take for granted, but which are great unknown things for a houndie putting his paw across the threshold of a family home for the very first time: the everyday noises of vacuum cleaners and fridges, the smells of glorious food, the oh so frightening staircase and mirrors. And of course the joys of having a lovely fluffy bed all to himself!

Comet is not alone on this journey, he has his new family to guide him, most of all his instant best friend, the family's daughter, Patty. As he ventures into the great unknown that is the back yard, he also meets another unlikely companion: the streetwise cat Rodrigo, who shows him the ropes. Goes to show hounds and cats can be friends!

Later on the family adds yet another companion, an Alaskan Malamute, Igloo, whose biggest challenge is coping with the warm climate.

Together the friends discuss the merits of living with Patty and her family and all those things a dog living in the city just can't do without. When Patty finds herself in trouble with some schoolyard bullies the three furry friends stick up for her like modern day musketeers, even to the point of doing something very daring.

The story unfolds as a wonderful tale of friendship, trust and self-esteem. All of us who own dogs will tell you what wonderful companions they make for children growing up, and the bond between Patty, Comet and Igloo is a great example.

Nice read for both younger and older readers. Haber uses easy language and has managed to put layers in his story enabling both younger and older children to find discussion points, on themes that touch any age. Looking forward to more adventures, no doubt Rodrigo will have a lot more up his sleeve to keep his canine and human friends occupied!