Two Dogs by Ian Falconer

Two dogs, Augie and Perry are left alone during the day. As pups they were always with people but as their owners now go to school or work, they are alone. They play games with each other, but soon tire of this, but now and gain Perry takes Augie’s ball, teasing until Augie plays the piano, a noise Perry cannot stand, but it means the ball is returned. They look wistfully outside, seeing the squirrel on the lawn, so decide to breakout. Barking at the door does not help, so Augie climbs on Perry’s shoulders and opens the handle of the door. It is very exciting outside. They play on the swings and seesaws, swim in the pool, and then find a hole. Digging seems second nature but some debate ensues about the damage to the lawn and the trouble they will get into. But logic is cast aside as the urge to dig takes over.

When they hear the car drive up, they hightail it back inside, barking after closing the door, making it seem like there is an intruder. And this is what their owners think, that a squirrel has done the damage to the lawn, and they are relieved.

Now and again they argue about just who saved the day but in the main they are the best of friends.

Wonderful illustrations reveal a pair of dogs with all their idiosyncrasies. Their intelligent faces peer out at the reader, making them sympathise with their plight. Falconer has beautify captured the efforts dogs go to endear themselves to their owners, and being a pair of dachshunds doubles the fun of their antics. A laugh out loud treat for all readers, kids will love the play they are involved in when their owners are away, making use of the backyard equipment, and laugh loudly at the advent of a small hole which we all know will get much bigger. The images of the dogs are wonderful, showing them in all their moods and contortions: sitting up, begging, playing around, fighting, working together to open the door, to finally snuggling into each other after their long day. Cautious Augie is a superb contrast with the more exuberant Perry and their personalities are revealed in this story.

Themes: Dogs, Behaviour, Humour, Read aloud.

Fran Knight