The Perfect Present

When readers left Henry and his pet duck, Spot, in 2010’s Wanted: The Perfect Pet it was the beginning of an unlikely but beautiful relationship. Now it’s Henry’s birthday, and Spot has picked out a perfectly thoughtful birthday present: a fishing rod that Henry has been eying. But what’s this in the box from Henry’s grandparents—an adorable puppy? Before readers can say “alienation of affections,” poor Spot is packing his bags and writing a good-bye note, convinced that “Henry’s always wanted a Dog, and now he has one.... I might as well not be here.” Readers may guess that Roberton will make sure it all works out in the end of her three mini-chapters, but that won’t stop them enjoying the high-stakes adventure that ensues when Henry and Dog (who, in the tradition of Mickey Mouse’s Pluto, is a nontalker) go after Spot. Once again Roberton proves she can create a resonant emotional landscape with simple, crisp line drawings and minimal detail—perhaps nowhere as evident as in the poignant hug between Spot and Henry after they are (spoiler alert) reunited. Ages 3–5. (June)