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Children's Fiction Dogs

Pugs Cause Traffic Jams

by (author) Jennifer McGrath

illustrated by Kathryn Durst

Publisher
Kids Can Press
Initial publish date
May 2022
Category
Dogs, New Experience
  • Hardback

    ISBN
    9781525303401
    Publish Date
    May 2022
    List Price
    $21.99

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Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels

  • Age: 3 to 7
  • Grade: p to 2
  • Reading age: 3 to 7

Description

Mayhem abounds in this romp of a story about a girl's search for her missing dog --- and about the dog who's just chasing a wild adventure!

A girl races all over town looking for her lost pug, Kirby. As she asks one dog owner in town after another if they've seen her missing pet, readers are treated to poetically succinct depictions of every dog breed the girl comes across in the neighborhood. “Golden retrievers are pleasers. Poodles are overachievers. Border collies are always on the job.” While at the same time, each alternating spread reveals the story of where her dog actually is, defined by the repeated phrase “But pugs cause traffic jams!” It's a dog's world of fun all around! Who could resist falling in love with this pug? (Hint: no one!)

Award-winning author Jennifer McGrath has crafted a funny, clever ode to the world's most beloved pets. The repetitive pattern of the catchy refrain “But pugs cause traffic jams” is sure to have children reciting it on cue, making this a lively storytime choice. Kathryn Durst's richly colored illustrations of the dogs and their perfectly paired people keep the visual interest high, while the speech bubbles add humor and energy. This delightful picture book with a strong focus on community is one that's sure to get children talking about dogs they have known, making it an easy jumping-off point for exploring animal traits and the unique characteristics of different dog breeds. It would also work well as a writing prompt for children to create their own descriptive dog or pet stories.

About the authors

Jennifer McGrath is a professional writer and award­winning children's author from Moncton, New Brunswick. Her two Middle Grade adventure books, Chocolate River Rescue and White Cave Escape, are popular with teachers and students alike. Jennifer is known for her enthusiastic storytelling style, her fascination with fairytales, and her fondness for sparkly things. She loves animals (especially dogs and ponies), the outdoors, and curling up in front of the fire with a good book.

Jennifer McGrath's profile page

Kathryn Durst grew up in Peterborough, Canada, and has been drawing ever since she could hold a pencil. She has a passion for children's illustration. She works in a variety of styles, using both traditional and digital mediums. Her art has been described as charming, whimsical, expressive, and full of life.

Kathryn attended Sheridan College for the Bachelor of Applied Arts 2D Animation Program. In her third year, she completed her internship at Pixar Animation Studios for storyboarding. She also works as an animator, filmmaker, and puppeteer. Kathryn also loves dancing, sewing, sculpting, playing accordion, cooking, and hanging out with her mini dachshund, Chili Dog. She is based in Toronto.

Kathryn Durst's profile page

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