Guinea Dog (Guinea Dog #1)

Reader reviewed by Emma

The book I reviewed is Guinea Dog by Patrick Jennings. It is  about a boy named Rufus who really wants a dog, but his dad would not let him get one because he hates dogs. Then one day his mom comes home with a guinea pig. Rufus is not very pleased with this orangish-brown, pudgy, spiky white mohawk animal. Next the guinea pig starts barking. She also fetches and runs around like a dog.  Rufus is very confused  and  really and does not like his new pet which he names Fido. Will Rufus ever end up liking her?  

I think the author did a very good job of explaining the story. One thing I think he could have done better is explain more about how the guinea pig acted like a dog.  More details would have helped me visualize this funny pet.  I think 9 to 11 year olds who like animals should read this book. Overall I give this book 4 out of 5 stars .

Reader reviewed by Rita Lorraine Hubbard, The Original H.I.R. (Historical Investigative Reporter)

Dogs rock. They're funny and playful and keep you company when you get sent to your room. They're smart, fast, loyal and obedient. They protect your house from burglars. And sometimes, if you're very, very lucky, they're even housebroken.

It's no wonder young Rufus wants a dog. All his fifth-grade friends--and a few of his enemies--have great dogs, so why shouldn't he? Rufus dreams of owning a lightning-fast Labrador or a hulking Rottweiler, but since his dad hates dogs and has composed a loooong list of all the reasons their family shouldn't have one, his mom has to figure a way around the no-dogs-allowed thing.

Enter Fido, a furry little guinea pig with the cutest Mohawk you've ever seen. Despite the fact that she has a pink little nose and funny little toes, she thinks she's a dog, and proceeds to do everything dogs do. She barks, bites, wags her furry butt, and eats Rufus' homework. She even poops in his backpack.

For a laugh-out-loud good time, be sure to pick up a copy of Guinea Dog, by talented writer Peter Jennings. It's a wonderfully different kind of "dog" book.