From "Publisher's Weekly": ". . . a calming portrait of escape and renewal."

Mostly picture book about a dog who has just had it with city life! The dog wants to leave the hot pavement and crowded environment. He and his owner goes to the beach where he can run around, play, and be in the fresh cool beach air.

This book was really cute and joyful! The illustrations were beautiful. I would use this book in a K-1st grade classroom just because of the language and story content. Very cute for younger grades.

Summary
This beautifully illustrated picture book is about a woman and her dog who need a break from the busy city for a day. Together they travel and to enjoy some fresh air and time at the beach. The story is told through both words and illustrations. It is focused around the dog's emotions. It begins with the pup being overwhelmed in the city to pure joy running along the sand.

Review
I can clearly see why this is a Caldecott Medal winner. The story, although simplistic, shows the power of fresh air and nature. Although there are so many amazing opportunities in a city, sometimes you need open sky to center yourself.

This book reminded me of my life in the summertime! Growing up on Cape Cod and now living in CT there is nothing quite like going home. The moment I leave the hustle and bustle of life here and get home with my toes in the sand and see the waves crashing on the shore it is a breath of fresh air. It is a nice break from reality. There is also nothing like a good sleep after a long days travels! ( )

I really like this book. I think that the artistic style of the book is amazing, and all of the images and colors used really add to the story. It is about a dog that is too hot in the city so, he and his owner go to the beach for the day to have fun. Then they return at night when the city is cooler before going home for dinner and bed. I think this would be good with young children, around preschool age, as a fun book to read mainly for the story.

Book for primary students. Hot Dog goes on a sweet little adventure through the busy city. The city is too scary so he goes to the beach where he can run and play. Cute story with great illustrations, I don't know if it would be my first choice in my classroom just because it isn't my personal favorite.