Good Dog, Aggie by Lori Ries, illustrated by Frank Dormer

Good Dog, Aggie is the sequel to Aggie and Ben: Three Stories, in which we meet a little boy and his cute - and often confused - pup Aggie.

In Aggie and Ben's three new chapter stories, Ben is struggling to teach Aggie to obey simple commands; sit and stay. Sometimes she gets it; more often she doesn't. Ben's patience and determination is matched only by Aggie's lovable stubborness. There are plenty of laughs but ultimately this is a story of love and perseverance.

Frank Dormer's pen, ink, and watercolor illustrations are full of unexpected shapes and colors, from an outragedely orange teacher to Ben's vibrant purple friend Mr. Thomas.

Verdict: Equally charming as a read-aloud, this quiet little series has staying power - I hope we'll be seeing more Aggie and Ben for a long time!

ISBN: 978-1570916458; Published February 2009 by Charlesbridge; Review copy provided by the publisher for Cybils