Caffeinated Reviewer

Nonna’s Corner is a special feature where I share books I’ve reviewed with my grandchildren, affectionately referred to as the “Royals” here at Caffeinated.

The Royals and I are back with a cute dog story. Diego the Smelly Dog by A.G. Russo shares the story of Ava and her grandfather who find an elderly dog, or perhaps he finds them?

Ava is a feisty little girl who loves dogs and likes bandaids. One day a large old dog follows Ava and Gramps home. Ava's mom won't let her have a pet so she can't keep him. But she does name him Diego. He is smelly. They take him to the rescue shelter the next day but Ava and Gramps visit him there every week. Who will give Diego a home? A heartwarming adoption story of unconditional love.

Illustrated by Alona Baulina, Diego the Smelly Dog introduces us to Ava and her Gramps as they return from their walk and discover a dog following them. Later, they find him sitting in their yard. The dog is quite smelly and covered in scratches, but they give him some food and the next morning take him to the rescue center.

Ava, of course, wants to keep the dog, whom she names Diego. Her Gramps reminds her that her mom said no pets, but the two visit the center each day. Diego gets a checkup and bath as my grandchildren hoped for a happy ending. They loved Diego and wanted Ava to keep him. You’ll have to read it yourself to discover what happens.

The book taught the kids about abandoned animals, rescue shelters and older animals. We had some discussions and as pet owners of a dog and a cat; they got emotionally caught up.

This is an early reader and suitable for children five years of age and up. Each page is illustrated by giving context clues and allowing the children to follow along. It’s perfect for small groups, the classroom and the family bookshelf.

Amazon

About Kimberly

Kimberly is a coffee loving book addict who reads and listens to fictional stories in all genres. Whovian, Ravenclaw, Howler and proud Nonna. She owns and manages Caffeinated PR. The coffee is always on and she is ready to chat. BlueSky | Facebook | Instagram

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