From School Library Journal
Grade 1–3—Written in short snappy chapters from the viewpoint of Down Girl, a frisky dog, this funny tale describes how she and her friend Sit attempt to train their humans. Down Girl soon learns that this is a difficult task because her owner doesn't respond to such wonderful treats as a chewed-up old glove. Both Down Girl and Sit soon become fed up with their respective people and resolve to get their attention by being "bad to the bone," resulting in even more fun. Seeing the world through the eyes of a rowdy dog can give young readers a new perspective on animal-people relationships and on point of view. Nolan's quick wit and Reed's amusing black-and-white illustrations enliven a neighborhood full of four- and two-footed characters. Shared aloud with the first two volumes,
Smarter Than Squirrels (2004) and
On the Road (2006, both Marshall Cavendish), or as a stand-alone, this hilarious story will delight classroom audiences and will also tempt reluctant readers.—
Carrie Rogers-Whitehead, Kearns Library, UT Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
In this third installment in the Down Girl and Sit chapter-book series, canine narrator Down Girl relates more slapstick adventures of everyday fun and frustrations with her human owner, who “just can’t be trained.” After too many mishaps at home, Down Girl and her best friend, Sit, are sent to obedience school, but back at home, their new manners quickly degenerate in another round of hilarious, minor catastrophes. Once again, Nolan’s lively text is well matched by Reed’s action-filled drawings. Another lighthearted entry in a clever, comedic series about a dog’s view of life. Grades 1-3. --Gillian Engberg
