Old Hat Book Review

Old Hat by Emily Gravett follows one pioneering pooch as he seeks to find the ultimate hat.  Harbet loves wearing the hat that his Nana knitted for him.  It's cozy, colorful, and keeps his ears warm.  But the fact is, it's an old hat.

Harbet noticed a group of trend-setting animals wearing fruit hats.  He quickly donned the new topper, but soon discovered that hat was now old too!  Trying to stay ahead in the world of fashion is hard work!

He bought Top Hat Magazine to research the trends.  He camped outside of the hat shop so he could have first pick of the caps.  His hat selections were still seen as old and out-dated.  Will Harbet ever find a way out of the hat havoc? 

I absolutely adore this book!  Gravett's story is full of humor and heart.  Young and old alike will relate to Harbet's struggle of keeping up appearances in a fashion-frenzied world.

Gravett's illustrations are gorgeous.  The characters she has created are truly memorable.  Harbet couldn't be any more adorable.  He actually reminds me of my Chiweenie, Penny, who has a severe overbite.

I love how much detail is contained on every page.  From the tiniest trim on a hat, to the actual articles in the Top Hat Magazine, Gravett shows a mastery of the drawing craft.

This is a wonderful book for readers of all ages.  The ending really packs a positive punch and serves as a great reminder to adults as well.

Archie Book Review

Archie by Domenica  More Gordon tells the tale of a dog fashionista.  One day, Archie receives a sewing machine from his Great Aunt Betty.  He seems perplexed by the gift but becomes inspired when he looks at his own pet dog.

With a few snips of the scissors and some carefully placed stitches, Archie has made a coat for his pet.  While out on a walk together, he is approached by a female dog wanting a dress for her pet.  The pair become the talk of the town.

Archie's phone begins ringing off the hook.  Everyone wants to wear his designs.  Will Archie be able to keep up with all of the demands?

I thought this was a fun read.  The story is nearly wordless and focuses on Gordon's whimsical illustrations.  Children will love the cast of colorful canine characters.

I do struggle with the fact that the story doesn't seem to have a plot.  The main character doesn't appear to face any obstacles.  I am also greatly confused at the idea of a dog owning a dog as a pet.  This made me wonder why some dogs get to obtain their freedom and walk around on two legs while others are forced to be a pet on all fours.  I thought this to be the greatest disconnect with the book.

Overall, this is a fun read for children ages 3-6.