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Three Yorkies—Jingle, Jaywok, and Joi Daisy—meet new friends: two alpacas named Josie and June. The story begins with the three pups learning what an alpaca is, and Joi Daisy is quick to tell her “brothers” that it is just like a llama. However, when the alpacas learn that the Yorkies are dogs, they are hesitant due to fear, but Jingle explains that they aren’t predators to the animals. Soon, they learn that they aren’t scary and become friends.
The author does a good job of explaining in great detail the origin of alpacas and how people utilize them to produce clothing. Rotifer also explains that alpacas don’t have fur but fiber, and the narrative provides informative details about shearing. The pups are very interested in knowing about their friends and their history. This example serves as a valuable learning tool for children to learn more about different cultures and avoid letting preconceptions hinder the formation of friendships.
The author also includes a fun section about dog sledding. The pups are friends with a half-Malamute and a German shorthaired named Betty, who was a former sled dog. There are other animals featured throughout the story: a Shih Tzu named Frodo, another alpaca that appears later in the book, and a tortoise named Cory. Once again, the Yorkies learn that not everyone is the same, and differences make us unique. For example, they are amazed that Cory eats only plants. The dogs are written with the characteristics of children, and their wonderment with what is around them in their world is infectious. The author does a fine job of weaving a story of whimsy but doesn’t forget about the importance of teaching either.