illustrated by Keiko Kasza
Summary
School Library Journal:
/* Starred Review */ PreS-Gr 1– Moka is a good dog who lives a perfect life with Michelle until they read a book about wolves. Suddenly, he feels like a failure. He is inspired to hunt for his food and howl at the moon, so he runs away to the mountains to be as free as a wolf. Kasza’s perfect pacing and expressive watercolor illustrations show how the pup’s joy at being able to jump, dance, and pee wherever he wants turns to misery as his prey outruns him and a skunk sprays him. Missing Michelle and his former life, he tries howling at the golden moon, and when his cries are answered by some real wolves, he runs home in terror. Children will find themselves captivated by Moka’s playful antics and comforted by his return. Children will howl with delight when they meet this engaging pup. Pair this story of adventure and going home again with Gene Zion’s Harry the Dirty Dog (HarperCollins, 1956) for supremely satisfying storytime.–Kristine M. Casper, Huntington Public Library, NY –Kristine M. Casper (Reviewed December 1, 2005) (School Library Journal, vol 51, issue 12, p116)
Awards:
- School Library Journal Best Books: 2005