In The New Dog, author Leia Barrett introduces readers to Tiny, a lovable, oversized dog with a big personality and an even bigger desire to belong. Tiny’s life starts in a cozy home, but when he grows too large for his surroundings, he finds himself at an animal shelter, surrounded by unfamiliar faces and plenty of noise. Told from Tiny’s perspective, this charming children’s book follows his experiences adjusting to change, meeting new people, and discovering what it means to become part of a family. Barrett gives Tiny a wonderfully distinct voice, blending confidence, vulnerability, and a healthy dose of mischief. His observations feel just like something a dog might think if given the chance to tell his own story.

The book’s humor comes naturally from Tiny’s enthusiastic approach to everyday life. Whether he’s navigating exercise, attending obedience school, or exploring the household toy collection, Tiny has a way of seeing things that makes even ordinary situations entertaining. His friendship with Odd, a much smaller canine companion, adds another delightful dimension to the story. Their differences in size and temperament create plenty of opportunities for laughter while also highlighting the gradual process of getting comfortable with someone new. Barrett’s conversational writing style makes Tiny an engaging narrator, and his occasional uncertainty gives the story emotional depth without weighing down its playful atmosphere.

Illustrator Shannon McKeon brings tremendous personality to this picture book through lively, expressive artwork that captures the delightful chaos of life with dogs. Tiny’s long legs, exaggerated ears, and animated facial expressions make him especially endearing, while Odd’s scruffy appearance provides an amusing visual contrast. The illustrations have a loose, sketchlike quality, with energetic black outlines and soft washes of blue, green, pink, and brown. Particularly entertaining are the scrapbook-inspired pages featuring snapshots, handwritten notes, and playful captions that document Tiny’s experiences. These details encourage readers to linger over each spread, discovering small jokes and visual surprises that complement the storytelling. McKeon also makes clever use of spacing and movement, allowing the artwork to communicate emotions and personality beyond the words on the page.

The New Dog is a warmhearted exploration of belonging, patience, and the relationships that make a place feel like home. Barrett approaches the subject of pet adoption with sensitivity, acknowledging that adjusting to a new environment takes time, even when everyone has the best intentions. Young readers will recognize feelings of nervousness, excitement, and uncertainty in Tiny’s experiences, making his story relatable beyond its canine perspective. Families who love dogs, especially those familiar with rescue animals, will appreciate the affectionate portrayal of their quirks and individual needs. With its appealing narrator, playful illustrations, and thoughtful message about finding your place, this is a children’s book that invites both laughter and meaningful conversations about kindness, understanding, and welcoming someone new.

Pages: 39 | ISBN: 9781736710364