Sydney, Bean, and the Missing Gloves, by Janice E Collins

 

Just like children, dogs are often frightened of the unknown. They may try to appear brave but, well, aren't. This book does a lovely, subtle job of showing young readers that it's okay to be afraid, asking for help isn't a weakness, and, finally, that working together to solve problems is the best approach. It does this via the story of Sydney, the Labrador Retriever, and her unexpected new little Labrador sister, Bean. Sydney does her best to accept Bean but isn't happy about it, even when Bean swears to be the best little sister ever. Much to Sydney's surprise, comforting Bean seems to also comfort her and she manages to sleep through a storm. Then, uh-oh, mother's beautiful pearl gloves have gone missing. It seems Sydney has had a problem with shredding and burying such items when scared, so she's the natural suspect. 

That's when the story really takes off. Bean knows Sydney didn't do it as Sydney slept right there beside her all night. Bean vows to help Sydney find the gloves. Unfortunately, Bean is naive and soon falls pry to the wily neighborhood cat. It's never quite clear why Monty the junkyard cat sets out to trap Bean but the motive of bullies isn't usually really known, either. Sydney recruits help as she searches for Bean, help that includes Sgt. Riley the retired police K-9. Again, the idea that having help when you most need it isn't a weakness but a strength. Wait till you find out why a ferret is part of the group. Heck, even some squirrels and birds get involved. Love the sweet nod to a baby's first tooth via the baby bird's first lost feather. In any case, while I'm not sure how Monty managed to trap Bean, it's fun to see the group come together and work to save her. 

Bottom line, a cute, fun read, though would have probably targeted a bit older audience although it'd work as a read-aloud, too. The illustrations were well done, showing personality, and add to the feel. The teacher in me liked the subtle use of the dogs to show how young children may feel and act, not to mention work together towards a common goal, in this case saving Bean. And, oh, let's not forget the bonus benefit that helps Sydney when they finally return home. Thanks #AtmospherePress for sharing this sweet introduction to Sydney and Bean, not to mention all their friends and, okay, even Monty. That junkyard cat is surely not done playing with the doggie's minds.