I'm the Best!

Dog stories abound, but this whimsical book is narrated by the pup himself. He's called Dudley now, but he's had several other names: ``For two months I was Mopsy. I think I was Cedric for a week.'' This oft-forsaken mutt has lived in apartments, houses and condos. His various owners have given him away because he misbehaved, or because they had to move; he has even been orphaned when one died. But his new people are different--they care about him. When he eats a plant, ``they're worried that it could make me sick. They've given me my own sock to chew on.'' This is a witty, heartwarming story of a dog who seems finally to have found a permanent, loving home. Sharmat's perfect poochy perspective contains just the right blend of canine comedy and cynicism. Hillenbrand's pithy illustrations show a somewhat bedraggled mutt who indeed lives up to his title statement. Ages 4-8. (Apr.)