Dog for Each Day Book

Describes Bertha McCain's seven dogs, one for each day of the week.

Candice Ransom - Children's Literature

Bertha McCain owns seven dogs, one for each day of the week. Each dog performs a different daily function, a take-off on the Mother Goose rhyme, "Monday's Child." In this case, Monday's dog "always barks at the cat," Tuesday's dog "brings Bertha's blue hat." Canine duties range from fetching the mail, making a breeze, singing, and warming feet. Sunday's dog has the prime job of waking Bertha, then all the dogs accompany her to church. It is refreshing to see the main character going to church. This Level C "Rookie Reader," geared for fluent readers, includes three-syllable words. The crisp, playful language is marred by one jarring slant-rhyme ("warm" and "song"). A rhyme that far off the mark is distracting and breaks the rhythm. Brooks' crayon-bright colored pencil and wash illustrations perfectly suit the upbeat story. A word list is included. 2003, Children's Press/Scholastic,