  | Full Text Reviews: School Library Journal - 08/01/2016 K-Gr 3—Emerson is a little dog with a big bark. When his loud sounds scare the neighbor cat Kissy into hiding, crotchety Miss Cross has words with his girl Eva. In a hasty decision, Eva bans the pup from barking altogether. The shaggy-eared mutt tries his best to comply with the drastic orders. When he spies a squirrel, he coughs a tepid "AR-ahem," and when the mailman arrives, he gulps in another bark. After swallowing his loud voice and feeling miserable, Emerson embraces his booming barks and saves the day. Woodruff's digitally created illustrations have funny details like a "Woof" welcome mat and rubber chicken chew toys. VERDICT Emerson's enthusiasm and good intentions will have readers rooting for him. A fun read-aloud for storytimes and small group sharing.—Linda Ludke, London Public Library, Ontario, Canada - Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission. Booklist - 08/01/2016 Emerson is a dog small in stature, but he compensates with loud and frequent barking. Emerson has a good life: he’s lovingly cared for, there’s plenty to bark at in his neighborhood, and neighbors Miss Cross and her cat, Kissy, often come to visit. One day, Emerson’s bark frightens Kissy, who runs away, and an upset Miss Cross blames him. He is told that he must stop barking, so he stays mum, although with much difficulty. Eventually, though, all of the bottled-up barks come out, leading to the discovery of Kissy and seven little newborn surprises. Emerson’s neighborhood returns to normal—mostly. This redemptive story is told with much enthusiasm and good cheer, clearly evident in the jovial digitally enhanced pen-and-ink illustrations. There is nothing scary in this neighborhood; even the grumpy Miss Cross isn’t overly threatening. Readers will enjoy Emerson’s misadventure and may hope for a follow-up to see just how Emerson and the others deal with Kissy’s mewling brood. - Copyright 2016 Booklist. Loading...
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