Dolby and the Woof-Off - Hardcover

Grade 3-5-- In this appealing story, Bo Dibbs hears that Woofies Dog Food is launching a competition to find its next commercial representative, and he instantly knows that his dog will win. With the help of his big brother, Bo establishes a training plan. But it isn't easy to teach a young dog new tricks, and first-grader Bo is nearly discouraged until he thinks of a great trick--he'll teach Dolby to answer the phone. Unfortunately, his parents object to a dog taking their calls so Bo must untrain Dolby--even a harder trick. In the end, Dolby becomes a real-life star, if not a rich TV star, and Bo is happy with his dog's success. While readers familiar with Oliver Dibbs to the Rescue! (1985) and Oliver Dibbs and the Dinosaur Cause (1986, both Four Winds) will enjoy the further adventures of the likable Dibbs family, this does stand alone. A subplot involving Bo's need for an eye patch to correct a lazy eye is sensitively and adroitly handled. Bo may be unusually persistent and resourceful for his age, but this will widen the appeal of the book to older dog lovers who might not want to read about a first grader. --Anne Connor, Los Angeles Public Library
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

In this third book about the Dibbs family, first-grader Bo decides to become famous. His brother Ollie has earned recognition for his many accomplishments; Bo is certain he will also, if his dog Dolby wins the Woofies Dog Food Company's Woof-Off. The winning canine will star in Woofies television commercials, and its trainer will surely receive great admiration. Bo wants Dolby to be extraordinary, so he teaches the animal to answer the telephone. During Dolby's training, and on the day of the long-awaited contest, Bo learns that things seldom go as planned, yet often work themselves out anyway. Choppy narration and stiff dialogue make this a hard bone to swallow, but its humorous and original storyline may amuse young readers. Illustrations not seen by PW. Ages 7-up.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.