Pete and Max want a dog, so their parents bring home a book about the work involved in owning a pet. After considering all the chores a puppy brings, the family goes to the shelter to pick out their new puppy. At first, Pete and Max share the tasks equally, but as time goes on, Pete gets busy in his own projects and caught up with his friends, and Max ends up pulling his older brother's weight. Ultimately the dog likes Max better, and when Pete finally notices, Pete resolves to be a better dog owner.

As a story, it's passable--not great, but decent. It's a good choice to give young kids who want a dog of their own, though, in place of or in addition to the non-fiction books on the same topic. The story jumps around disjointedly, and the muted color palette of the illustrations won't send this title flying off the shelves. It will appeal to some kids with hand-selling, but there are plenty of better books out there.

(Phew! I have something to bring to the review group Thursday!) ( )