HOME SCHOOL BOOK REVIEW
Book: Doggie Day Camp: Verb and Adverb Adventures
Author: Cynthia Reeg
Illustrator: Kit Grady
Publisher: Guardian Angel Publishing Inc., 2008
ISBN-13: 978-1-935137-22-1 (print)
ISBN-13: 978-1-935137-23-8 (e-book)
Related websites: www.cynthiareeg.com (author), www.GuardianAngelPublishing.com (publisher)
Language level: 1 (nothing objectionable)
Reading level: Ages 5-9
Rating: 5 stars (EXCELLENT)
Reviewed by Wayne S. Walker
Reeg, Cynthia. Doggie Day Camp: Verb and Adverb Adventures (published in 2008 by Guardian Angel Publishing Inc.). Bubba the dog is attending his first day at doggie day camp, but he is shy. However, he slowly becomes interested and makes new friends as he engages in the various activities. In addition, he helps to teach readers (or listeners) about verbs and adverbs as well. This book is one of the pet grammar parade series. What a unique idea! As a book reviewer who has had to wade through some really bad grammar because many authors (and apparently some editors) do not know the ins and outs of the English language, I firmly believe that children need to be taught proper English grammar.
Studies show that beginning formal grammar studies for students under third or fourth grade can be counterproductive, but grammar concepts can still be gradually introduced to younger children if done gently, and story books such as this are a wonderful way to do so. There is an introduction that explains what verbs and adverbs are. At the end, there is a study guide that gives further information about verbs and adverbs and contains several fun activities for children that will help to reinforce what they have learned. I would hope that books like this will find a ready audience. They are sorely needed! I really like this idea.
