 |
A poor puppy named Bubbles has many troubles in first-time author Stone's picture book. Homeless, wandering the streets, she spends days searching for food scraps. Most afternoons are fun in the park, playing with other dogs, but when night falls, they all go home with their humans. One day, a man driving a large, noisy truck offers Bubbles food—only to catch her and bring her to a shelter. With all kinds of animals there, including other dogs, cats, hamsters, and more, there are lots of new smells for Bubbles and things to explore. Though well taken care of, it's often scary in this strange place, especially when she's confined to a cage every night. Bubbles gets a life-changing surprise when a visitor to the shelter officially adopts the lucky pup. Happy and healthy in a safe, loving home, Bubbles addresses readers at the book's end, encouraging adoption from animal shelters for "humans who want a new friend" for a "love that won't end."
Stone's delightful story, ending on a decidedly cheerful note, is accompanied by imaginative illustrations by Matthew Smith, brand manager and designer, whose distinctive artwork has adorned other children's books. The colorful, action-packed images seem to dance with the text itself, creating a joyful reading experience. While the titular character originally had troubles, things eventually work out for Bubbles—just as they do for the young woman who loved Bubbles "from the very start," declaring that the doggy has won her heart. This uplifting narrative reminds us that good things can and do happen to animals in need. The bonding between Bubbles and her "new human" is heartwarming. Readers of this story—young, old, or anywhere in between—will surely root for Bubbles, whose troubles disappear in the name of love and rescue.