Firehouse!

Edward, the dapper yet hapless dog last seen mucking around the barnyard in Teague’s Funny Farm, is back for another adventure, this time to the firehouse. His sensible cousin Judy returns as well, accompanying Edward on a tour during which the all-Dalmatian crew of Engine Company 5, led by the chief, Mrs. Speckle, includes the visitors in its daily routine. From trying on a shiny fire hat to heading out on a drill, Edward is excited but clearly—and comically—overwhelmed. As in the previous book, the author’s deadpan text is cleverly paired with silly, expansive antics depicted in the crisp oil artwork. (“Judy opens the fire hydrant. The water is so strong it knocks Edward off his feet.”) But when a real emergency call comes in and Edward proves himself a capable hero, there’s plenty to bark about. This perky blend of educational field trip and funny outing brings readers into the action with bold, often close-perspective scenes and a few entertaining details (like the tiny mice in firefighter gear along for the ride and the company’s spaghetti dinner). Ages 3–5. (May)