I'm The Best (2010)

Book Info

Author

Lucy Cousins

Genre

Middle Grade & Children's

Rating

3.64 of 5 Votes: 2

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ISBN

1406323683 (ISBN13: 9781406323689)

Language

English

Publisher

Walker Books Ltd.

Shops

Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble

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About book I'm The Best (2010)

Boastful dog turns off his friends by claiming he is the best at...everything! They feel sad until they affirm their abilities. I have to say, the page where dog is crying because everyone has smacked him down esteem-wise (as he has done to them) is slightly heartbreaking. All's well that ends with a hug, I guess? I found this book a bit...awkward. Not one I would pick for storytime (I don't enjoy shocked and saddened mommy faces glaring back at me from the storytime audience, no i do not) but if a parent approached me troubled by their child's boastful ways, this may be a good suggestion. The conceit (pun intended) of this picture book is successful, but the execution is a bit clunky. Lucy Cousins' illustrations in bright, vivid colors fly off the page, making for a fun romp through a simple but important message. Dog's comeuppances are well-deserved and amusing. The book's final page is thought-provoking... is Cousins indicating that a trait such as conceit is innate and unchangeable? Or that everything that had been taught before was forgotten in an instant? A mixed message that undermines the main point.