School Library Journal Reviews : SLJ Reviews 1986 May K-Gr 3 Kellogg's ``fantastical'' nature is more than evident in his latest title. Best friends Kathy and Louise share everything together. When Louise goes away for the summer, Kathy sees the neighborhoodliterally and figurativelyas a barren desert. Finally a postcard arrivesLouise (the traitor) is having a wonderful time! Kathy is hurt and angry but is somewhat appeased by the appearance of a new neighbor, 72-year-old Mr. Jode, who has a dog who is about to have puppies. Kathy is to have the first spotted pup; Louise's mom also arranges for Louise to have one. Louise returns, bearing gifts and assurances that she did indeed miss Kathy. The first puppy is brown, and given to Louise. There is no second puppy. Kathy is crushed, until Louise suggests raising the puppy together. All ends in starry daydreams about the future. The watercolor and ink illustrations are appealingly bright and magical. Kathy and Louise's daydreams are vividly and flamboyantly portrayed, with ``reality'' just as attractively pictured. If this title is flawed, it is only because Kellogg attempts too much in his plot. There is too much going on for too long, but the charm of the illustrations is enough to minimize this factor. Janice M. Del Negro, Hild Regional Public Library, Chicago Copyright 1986 Cahners Business Information.
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