Review — The Great Smelly Slobbery Small-Tooth Dog

By Gregory A. Martin, Curriculum Materials Center Librarian, Assistant Professor of Library Science, Cedarville, (Ohio) University
Library Media Connection — 1/1/2008

Based on a traditional tale from Great Britain, this is the story of a wealthy man, his daughter, and an enchanted dog. When thieves attack the man, a great dog comes to his aid asking nothing in return but his lovely daughter. The daughter honors her father’s word by traveling with the dog to his castle. The two develop a close friendship, and the girl tells the dog that he is as “sweet as a honeycomb.” The dog agrees to take the girl to visit her father, but turns back when she is unkind by saying he is a “great smelly, slobbery, small-tooth dog.” When the girl finally realizes how much she cares for the dog, he is transformed into a handsome prince. Julie Paschkis’ illustrations, reminiscent of medieval tapestries, are energetic, colorful, and detailed. The font used in the books contributes to the overall medieval flavor. In addition to the charming story with its “Beauty and the Beast” motif and the delightful illustrations, Paschkis has included various flowers on each page. The end-papers explain the traditional meaning of the flowers, adding to the reader’s deeper understanding and enjoyment of the book.

Title Details: The Great Smelly Slobbery Small-Tooth Dog
Author: Margaret Read MacDonald 
Illustrator: Julie Paschkis
Interest Level: GR PreK-2

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