Theses and Dissertations for Higher Degrees Deposited in the University Library Book

McSpot's Hidden Spots: A Puppyhood Secret by Laura L. Seeley is the humorous story of a Dalmatian puppy who thinks he is better than all the other puppies because he is spotted. None of the other dogs like to be around him because he is too self absorbed. He has a hidden spot in a hollow tree where he takes all the spotted items he finds and hides them. One day he sees a stuffed Dalmatian animal and takes it to his hideaway so he is the only spotted king. After this he has a frightening dream in which all the other animals are spotted too. A large spotted owl picks him up and drops him off with all the other spotted discarded things. Through this dream he learns that his looks are not everything and that his spots really do not matter.

Seeley brings lots humor to the book through the illustrations. Because it is animated and cartoonish the reader can characterize McSpots as a self absorbed puppy through his actions. The book is a poetry book and rhymes throughout the story creating a steady rhythm that is keep until the last line. The creativeness and imaginative dream that McSpots shows his immaturity. Because the author characterizes McSpots so well at the beginning of the book the reader can clearly see the change in him as he grows to be a better dog. The pictures are very detailed and show exactly what is going on in the text. The playfulness of the cover and the suspicious look on McSpots face instantly draw the reader in to see what this book is about. Unlike many books the title does not give away any of the story but is still inviting.

Overall this would be a very fun read for young children. The rhyme is fun and easy to follow and the message is laid out clearly. The message of this book is that no one is better than another.