cover image Elvis & Romeo (Elvis & Romeo #1)

Elvis & Romeo (Elvis & Romeo #1)

David Soman and Jacky Davis. Aladdin, $19.99 (40p) ISBN 978-1-6659-4806-7

In this series opener from the creators of the Ladybug Girl books, the eponymous protagonists make their respective debuts at a city’s dog park. Readers see instantly that the two hounds couldn’t be more different: scowling bulldog Elvis digs in his heels, while effusive, retriever-like Romeo “couldn’t wait to make a new friend.” Given the array of pooches to choose from, shown in digital artwork that offers the feel of charcoal and watercolor, Romeo naturally picks none other than grumpy Elvis. Via a series of comics-style panels, Romeo dashes in and out of frame, perceiving a spirited game of tag with Elvis, while the bulldog remains firmly planted. But when a Frisbee zooms straight at Romeo’s head, Elvis—perhaps in spite of himself—saves the day with a spectacular leap and catch. The heroic act proves an icebreaker, and the two are soon dreaming up the world’s finest sandwich, running for treats with the dog park’s other denizens, and lolling in the grass together. It’s a big-personality friendship story that shows how it’s possible to recover from a ruff start. Human characters are portrayed with various skin tones. Ages 4–8. (May)
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