From School Library Journal
PreS-Gr 3—Plum, an endearing whippet, poodle, and Jack Russell mix, joyfully informs readers about all of the things she loves. Treats, the park, her neighbors: she loves everything (except rain). But what she loves most is love itself. Most days her family reciprocates her feelings just fine, but in her quest to do the things that make her happy, she ends up doing a few things she shouldn't. Several incidents end with a scolding and the exasperated remark "Oh, Plum!" which makes the pooch worry that they won't forgive her. For most of the book this cheerful dog is surrounded by other individuals in colorful contexts, but in her moment of doubt, she's alone and in the dark. Even with watercolors and pencils giving the spread a gentle touch, at that moment readers empathize with her. But then the family members open the door to collect and reassure her, eliciting a sigh of relief. Dog owners will recognize the authenticity in Plum's voice, that live-in-the-moment attitude, the inability to understand why certain actions are prohibited (hence the lack of explanations in the text), and that particular look that says, "Please love me." VERDICT An adorable lesson in love from a big-hearted little dog.—Rachel Forbes, Oakville Public Library, Ontario, Canada
Review
“Clark captures a dog's exuberance and love of the simple things. . . . And no child will fail to understand the dog's conundrum: she knows what she should do and yet feels compelled to do the wrong thing anyway. Fur, ears, and posture speak volumes. Dog lovers will especially ‘LOVE’ this, and readers who can't get enough can follow the real-life Plum in the author's blog.”—Kirkus Reviews
“Clark exuberantly captures Plum’s zest for life, whether it’s playing with the kids next door or causing trouble that tests her family’s patience. But unconditional love is unconditional love, and even at the height of Plum’s post-mischief worry—‘Would they ever love me again?’ she wonders, stuck in time-out—the answer to that question is never in doubt.”—Publishers Weekly
“Little ones will easily identify with Plum, who wants to be good but also finds some things irresistible. Clark, who blogs about her real dog, Plum, presents a book, jauntily illustrated in watercolor and colored pencil, that brims with good humor, recognizable lessons, and, of course, lots of love. The oversize format—eye-catching spreads and pages of vignettes—makes this a great choice for story hours.”—Booklist
“Children will fall in love with Plummie and laugh at her mishaps.”—School Library Connection
About the Author
Emma Chichester Clark (www.emmachichesterclark.co.uk) began her website, Plumdog Blog (emmachichesterclark.blogspot.com) to chronicle the real-life adventures of Plum, her lovable “whoosell” (whippet, poodle, and Jack Russell cross). Emma soon had thousands of loyal Plumdog devotees, and a book of the blog is published by Clarkson Potter. Love Is My Favorite Thing is the first Plumdog picture book for children.
Emma has written and illustrated numerous picture books, including the Blue Kangaroo series. She grew up in the Irish countryside, where she began making books with sewn-up spines when she was five years old. She studied graphic design and later attended the Royal College of Art. She lives in West London, England, with her husband, three stepsons, and their beloved Plum.
