  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 10/01/1988 PreS-Gr 2 Henry and his big dog Mudge, stars of four previous books, appear once again. Three short stories (``Sparkle Days,'' ``Christmas Eve Dinner,'' and ``Firelight'') tell of the two and their warm friendship. The color splashed cartoon-style illustrations are just right for the lively pair as they romp across the pages. Mudge is perfect just big enough and just fluffy enough. One of the funniest illustrations shows Henry in his ``snow boots, snow pants, a snow jacket, snow mittens. . .a snow scarf. . .and a snow mask that let only his eyes and mouth show.'' No wonder Mudge thought that he was a ``strange creature.'' Emerging readers will find this book one that they can enjoy independently again and again. Rylant's clever repetition of words enhances the text rather than dulls the stories, while Stevenson's illustrations add just the right clues in the right places. There are four sparkling winners here: Henry and Mudge and Rylant and Stevenson. Sharron McElmeel, Cedar Rapids Community Schools, Iowa - Copyright 1988 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Loading...
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