Synopses & Reviews
Murphy is a simple dog with simple pleasures. Hes happy just to lie on the porch and watch the people go by, especially if they have treats for him to eat! All those treats add up, though, and even Murphy has to admit that maybe hes not such a fine example of his breed after all. But whats a dog to do? Cheryl says he has to diet, and thats just the beginning.
One day a delivery van arrives with a strange machine. Murphy puts up quite a fight, but Cheryl is determined to get him trim and fit. Soon, the neighbors cant stop talking about Murphys new activity. Who says you cant teach an old dog new tricks! Readers will delight in the familiar battle of wills between pet and owner, hilariously portrayed through Harriet Zieferts witty text and Emily Bolams warm, expressive illustrations.
Review
"Ziefert and Bolam have combined their talents again to introduce Murphy, the burly yellow Labrador who loves to eat. . . .Theres no denying Murphys charm, nor Zieferts infectious, lighthearted spirit, which Bolam snares with her simple, rosy paintings." Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
Bolam was born and raised in the English countryside. She studied Illustrations at Brighton College of Art and is the illustrator of many popular books for children, including Murphy Meets the Treadmill, Louie's Goose, Clara Ann Cookie, and I Swapped My Dog, also a big fan of swapping, hopes to make at least one good swap this year. She makes her home in England.Harriet Ziefert draws on a true story told to her by Santiago Cohen for the text of this Christmas tale. This is her first picture book collaboration with him, though they know each other from their many years in neighboring New Jersey towns.