Book Review: Dr. Duncan Dog on Duty

With so many children’s books catering to 4 to 8 years old available, parents and preschool teachers usually have a hard time picking out the right books for them. While there is no such thing as bad children’s books, finding one that entertains, captivates young minds, instills values, without preaching or didactic teaching, can be a challenging feat.

When I was approached to review this book, Dr. Duncan Dog on Duty, I was a bit worried I might not have much to talk about since I don’t read children’s books these days years. When I received an e-copy of the book, my worries instantly disappeared. This delightful picture book is about a dog named Duncan, a.k.a. Dr Duncan Dog, who volunteers at the children’s hospital as a therapy dog.

The story is told from Chelsea’s point of view, a young girl herself, sharing her family’s practice where everyone including pets has a job to fulfill. The main character is, of course, Duncan the dog. The part that I liked most is where Chelsea tells (and shows) us how she gets Duncan ready for his once-weekly job in the children’s hospital. First by bathing Duncan. Then she dresses him up in a green vast with two different badges, one that says, “Ask to pet me. I’m friendly!” Finally, she loads Duncan’s backpack with a Polaroid camera, alcohol wipes, and doggie treats!

The story incorporates many of the best things in children’s literature. It is educational (the role of a therapy dog) and it instills values (commitments, giving, caring, and sharing without expectation). This is the type of story that promotes meaning and purpose into the lives of our children.

Almost every page has beautiful and cheerful illustrations, four of which are 2-page spreads. That’s eye candy for young readers and adults too.

This book has about 650 words, averaging about 40 words per page. The sentences are short and to the point. Long sentences, approximately 20 words, are broken down to 7 to 9 words per line. With a nice font and colorful illustrations spread across the pages, young and beginner readers will find it an easy read.

Highly recommended for beginner readers or maybe pre-readers.

Dr. Duncan Dog on Duty is written by Lisa Dunn-Dern and illustrated by Andrea Yomtob.