Freddi the Dog
December 8th, 2010
After reading the book I looked it up online to see what others were saying about it. The book is a new release so there were not too many reviews out there. However, I feel it is important to note that the ones out there are positive. Why is that important? It is important because I cannot be that generous. While this may make me unpopular with those who loved the book or the authors (I regret that..really I do) but I cannot give this book a positive review. This is just one woman’s opinion and I certainly do not want to dissuade anyone from reading the book. Let me go over the pros and cons of the book.
Pros:
The concept of the dog eating everything in sight and attributing that to the items reminding the dog of food is very creative. The attempt at humor is successful. Even my 12 year old thought the book was creative on that front. My 5 year old agreed this to be a funny point.
Cons:
Get ready to throw your tomatoes and practice booing but I did not like the writing style. In fact, I would have to say it was poorly written. Let me explain that the book seems to be written as if someone is telling the story aloud in an expressive manner. However, the grammar and sentence stricture leaves much to be desired and the implication of how the book is to be told was simply “trying too hard”. I also have a problem with the excessive use of exclamation points and this book has far more than its fair share. Some will disagree and think I am too picky or prudish. I must say children’s books which do not live up to the quality of Winnie the Pooh, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, and Lyle the Crocodile are quickly pushed aside. I will admit I am a book snob and would classify Freddi the Dog in the twaddle category. If you seek a hysterical, short, fun, book try Parts by Tedd Arnold. Parts retains it humor and wit while written in a whimsical fashion. I feel that is the intention of Freddi the Dog but for me it did not quite hit the mark.
What did my kids think? My five and two year olds thought it was funny but right now they are in a Dr. Seuss phase so nothing can compare. My 12 year old thought it was creative but did not like the climax and ending.
My apologies to Freddi and Freddi fans but this book simply is not my cup of tea. I do encourage all to decide for themselves. I am the same person who thought sitting through the move Avatar was sheer torture.
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