July 16, 2024 by Greenwillow Books
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
In this beginning chapter book, we meet 8-year-old Felix, who is very excited to have $5 from his Nana to spend at the thrift store. He finds a well worn blanket about which he has a good feeling. His Nana questions him, but he is insistent. Since the blanket is only $1, he is also able to get a few other things. At home, with his dog Mary Puppins, Felix experiments with the blanket while awaiting the monthly "bean feast" (AKA- dessert for dinner) with his Nana. Everything is normal until he covers himself with the blanket... and turns into a dog! He is very impressed at how many different things he can smell, and glad to talk to Mary Puppins. The two have some adventures, and talk to Gumbo the Cat, but eventually Felix wants to return to being a boy. With Gumbo's help, Felix realizes that in order for the transformation to occur, an adult needs to say his name three times. Will Nan be able to save him?
Strengths: Illustrated in a style similar to this author's Maybe Maybe Marisol Rainey, this is a fun and silly story that will encourage the imaginative use of old blankets! Felix's gentle adventure is a good chance for him to talk to his dog and understand the different skills our canine friends have, and has some gentle tension when he wants to return to being human, especially since having cake for dinner hangs in the balance. I'm all for any book that encourages thift store purchases, especially when the haul includes Amelia Bedelia books.
Weaknesses: While this is delightful, it is a bit young for middle school, so I will pass on purchase.
What I really think: This is a great choice for readers who are looking for more easy to read books like McDonald's Stink Moody, Brown's Flat Stanley, or Kirby's Captain Awesome.
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