FICTION

Claude at the Beach

illus. by Alex T. Smith. 96p. Peachtree. 2014. Tr $12.95. ISBN 9781561457038. LC 2013032152.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 2—Claude is a stylish dog who tucks handy supplies under his beret and goes on adventures with his animated sock friend, Sir Bobblysock. He decides he needs a vacation, so he packs a suitcase with useful items (whipping cream, lampshade, slightly squished sandwiches) and heads to the beach. He and Sir Bobblysock rescue a swimmer from a shark, win a sand castle contest, and team up with pirates to search for treasure. Just as rival pirate Naughty Nora appears and the situation looks dire, the contents of Claude's suitcase provide an unexpected solution. At first glance, the book looks like a beginning reader with its limited color palette, illustrations in the style of Mr. Peabody and Sherman, and repetitive cadence ("Claude is a dog. Claude is a small dog. Claude is a small, plump dog"). However, vocabulary like "baguette" and "skedaddled" and Claude's attempt to order ice cream in French ("Excusez-moi, 'ave you une glace à flavor of juicy bone?") make the book more advanced that it would seem at first. A fun choice for children who enjoy absurdist humor, but probably best as a read-aloud.—Suzanne Myers Harold, formerly at Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR
Dog Claude and Sir Bobblysock visit the beach and have several zany adventures involving sandcastles, sharks, and pirate treasure. The duo cavorts in the Snowy Mountains, but an avalanche puts them in danger. Of course, they're always home in time for Mr. and Mrs. Shinyshoes' return. Humorous red-accented illustrations, an amusing storytelling style, and quirky plots will continue to delight Claude's fans. Review covers these titles: Claude at the Beach and Claude on the Slopes.

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