Madeline Finn and the Library Dog

Madeline Finn does not like to read. Not books. Not magazines. Not even the menu on the ice cream van. Fortunately, Madeline meets Bonnie, a library dog. Reading aloud to Bonnie isn't so bad. When Madeline Finn gets stuck, Bonnie doesn't mind. As it turns out, it's fun to read when you're not afraid of making mistakes. Bonnie teaches Madeline Finn that it's okay to go slow, to keep trying, and to get support from a friend.

“"It's a warm, encouraging story that suggests that perfection isn't necessary in order to achieve one's goals, and that help can be found in unexpected corners." Publishers Weekly. "Softly coloured scenes have an old-fashioned feel, and the especially appealing canine characters enhance the comforting tone of the narrative." Booklist. "So adorable readers may attempt to hug the page." Kirkus Reviews”

Madeline Finn and the library dog has been beautifully written and illustrated by Lisa Papp. The text sensitively addresses the difficulty that Madeline (and lots of children) experience when leaning to read – especially reading aloud – and children will be able to identify with her and take inspiration from Madeline’s determination not to give up.This is a great picture book to share and read aloud to children whether they experience difficulties reading or not. -- Vicky Harvey Armadillo magazine
A beautiful, reassuring, story for all those struggling to read. Oh my goodness this is a heart-warming book! Just stunning and perfect to share with reluctant readers or anyone who worries about making mistakes and not being good enough. -- Shelley Fallows Tales Before Bedtime blog
"It's a warm, encouraging story that suggests that perfection isn't necessary in order to achieve one's goals, and that help can be found in unexpected corners." Publishers Weekly
"So adorable readers may attempt to hug the page." Kirkus Reviews
"Softly coloured scenes have an old-fashioned feel, and the especially appealing canine characters enhance the comforting tone of the narrative." Booklist
It's a lovely story... told in good short sentences in a clear font which would be ideal for the emerging reader. The vast majority of the text is on cream paper which is easiest for people who suffer from dyslexia and the paper is substantial enough that nothing bleeds through from the reverse, which can be distracting. There's a bonus too in that parents who suffer from dyslexia will find this book easier than most to read to their child. If the text is good, then the images are gorgeous - I'd cheerfully hang that picture of Bonnie and Madeleine that's on the cover on my wall. -- Sue Magee The Bookbag
Lisa Papp's gentle watercolour illustrations capture the little girl's feelings so beautifully in this encouraging story, which has a lovely surprise ending, both for the main protagonist and for readers. -- Jill Bennett Red Reading Hub
Warm and wonderful - and just the ticket for little readers who've lost their confidence.
... a lovely book and one that could help struggling readers understand they're not alone and those who can read will feel more empathy with those who can't. -- TheBookActivist blog

American author and illustrator Lisa Papp was inspired by her local library's "Read-to-Dogs" program. Most of the dogs featured in the book were once living a life on the streets or in shelters. "These former shelter dogs are now spending their lives helping children. It's a beautiful thing to watch."

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