Rosco vs. the Baby

PreS—Rosco is the center of attention, champion of the household, loud purveyor of opinions—until the day the baby arrives. This title has much in common with other books on sibling rivalry—except that Rosco happens to be a dog. What he notices first about the new baby is his smell. When the baby cries, Rosco barks. The baby's getting all the food, toys, and attention. "This house wasn't big enough for the both of them." In eight rounds, the adversaries go at it: Rosco chews up blankies and leaves smelly souvenirs among the crayons; the baby hides the dog's favorite toys and makes mud pies on his head. Ward's cheeky pencil and watercolor illustrations depict a growing closeness as war turns into play and then friendship. By the time the now-toddler and his best buddy are barking together at an unfortunate squirrel, the two learn of a sudden and greater challenge—twins! Rosco is an entertaining and nonthreatening stand-in for any child adjusting to a new brother or sister. Ward's artwork leaves some outlines white, adding color and cut-paper texture to others. Postures, placements, and facial expressions tell the story with humor and compassion, making it accessible and funny to a broad audience.