In entertaining, witty fashion, the author-illustrator duo of Some Bugs (2014) here highlight a festive array of pets great and small. Set at a pet show in the park, various events from agility trials with a snake ("Some pets slither") and a rabbit ("Some pets bound"), to a pig race ("Some pets squeal"), to a costume party--featuring a dragon-suited dog and punk-rock Chihuahuas among others--give different pets a chance to shine. Eventually, there's a celebratory animal parade, culminating with all the pets and their diverse, youthful owners gathered for an award ceremony. Finally, after an exciting day, things quiet down with an affectionate concluding scenario and "Some pets can be . someone's best friend!" The short, descriptive text with refrain is enlivened with rhyming elements and interspersed sound effects.Meanwhile, the vibrant, collagelike mixed-media artwork incorporates cartoonish touches, amusing seek and- find details, and varying perspectives as animals interact with one another and their caretakers in a variety of playful scenarios, from chaotic to sweet. A closing author's note briefly touches on the responsibilities of pet ownership. Peppy, fun, and perfect for reading aloud.
-- Shelle Rosenfeld.