Corinne Fenton (text), Robin Cowcher (illus.), Little Dog and the Summer Holiday, Walker Books Australia, Oct 2017, 32pp., $24.99 (hbk), ISBN: 9781925381160
For me this book captures glimpses of my childhood, which was warming to reflect on. The familiarity of this story makes me wonder if it might represent the ‘typical’ Aussie upbringing.
The summer holiday adventures are told from the little dog’s perspective as it shares the joy of camping and holidays with his owners, Jonathon and Annie, Mum and Dad.
The caravan is loaded up – it’s a team effort; and then the family hit the road, exploring different corners of Australia. The van will be their home away from home as they drive from caravan park to caravan park. It’s here that I remember making the best memories; making new friends and playing with other camping kids, bbqs, and board game tournaments; just like little dog and his family.
After capturing the sights and special moments on camera, swimming in the ocean and playing in the sand; it’s time to trek back home, the most familiar place of all. Little dog ends this story with three barks as they arrive home – signifying home as his favourite place to be.
Beautiful watercolour illustrations capture the sunny Aussie summer; with its blue skies, scorching sun and varying fauna.
A very pleasant read.
Reviewed by Raquel Mayman
