44 months - O loves this book. Probably because she was this little girl not that long ago when we had no pets in the house after loosing two cats and a dog in a year and a bit. She would often make believe a toy or stuffed animal or random inanimate object was her pet. I think O really appreciated the little girls creativity and absolutely loved the name she gave her new REAL pet in the end. We've had to read this many many times since it came home from the library.
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really adorable story and illustrations ( )

Prudence desperately wants a pet and is determined to have one. Great story, wonderful illustrations. ( )

Prudence's parents tell her many reasons why she can't have a pet. Prudence tries out inanimate objects as pets; a branch, a twig, a shoe, and a tyre. She tries out some living things; her baby brother as well as sea friends (sea monkeys), which she is disappointed with.

I found the number of sequences of the different pets a little long, as a reader I have already got the idea of what is going on.

The illustrations support the text and Stephen Michael King does not disappoint with his wonderful illustrations especially Prudence' s eye popping out, big and round when she sees something that takes her interest.

I am concerned about the parents final decision to get a pet for Prudence. I am also concerned that Prudence's want turns into a need. Pets are expensive and they need room, both of these answers to Prudence from her parents were very valid as to why she couldn't have a pet. This story could potentially led to another pet present that could end up at the RSPCA.

Audience: 5 - 10 ( )

Simply colored ink drawings on white space are the backdrop for poor Prudence, who wants a pet - desperately.

""No," says Dad, "pets cost too much to keep." "No," says Mom, "pets make noise.""

But these arguments do not stop the determined Prudence. She chooses a branch for a pet, then a twig, and even an old shoe.

"Its name is Formal Footwear. She found the same written on its inside.
She puts Formal Footwear on a leash and takes him for a walk around the block.
The neighbors find Formal Footwear very interesting. Prudence shows them all the tricks she has taught Formal Footwear. Formal Footwear is a smart shoe."

She's so desperate, she even tries out her brother, Milo, for a pet. "She feeds him seeds and grass."

This is a hysterical look at a poor girl's quest for a pet. Will her parents (shown from a kids' eye view of waist down) relent? They'll have to. Prudence is impossible to resist!
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