HARRY THE DIRTY DOG/ HARRY AND THE GUINEA PIG

HARRY AND THE DIRTY DOG by Gene Zion. Illustrated by Margaret Bloy Graham

HARRY AND THE GUINEA PIG by Nancy Lambert

I grew up on Harry the Dirty Dog by Gene Zion. This great picture book tells the story of Harry, a dog who runs away so he doesn't have to have his bath. The problem is he gets so dirty while running away that when he tries to go home, his family doesn't recognize him. It's a wonderful book that helps to reinforce the importance of obedience and clean habits without being preachy.

Now Harry is back in a new story written by Nancy Lambert. Harry is used to being the center of attention, so when his family agrees to watch a guinea pig for their neighbor, Harry struggles with some jealousy. He tries to act like the guinea pig and ends up accidentally letting it go. Thus begins the search for the runaway rodent, but the only way Harry can be a help is to be the dog he is!