Houndsley's cousin Wagster is coming for a visit, and Houndsley starts to worry that his friends like Wagster better than they like him, especially because Wagster's so good at so many things.

This beginning chapter book is good for kids who know how to read a little but aren't quite ready to progress on to longer chapter books. They will feel accomplished after reading this on their own.

The story is pretty straightforward, with Houndsley initially being a little jealous and then realizing that his cousin isn't necessarily great at everything and learning that his friends can admire his cousin while still being friends with him. The moral is good and it's not done too heavy-handed, but for some reason this book didn't do much for me. It was fine, but not one I'd go out of my way to recommend.

The illustrations seem sort of old-fashioned and more like sketches almost. Come to think of it, the book as a whole felt a little old-fashioned (with phrases like "razzle-dazzle" and "this lovely vision"), which is maybe why it didn't sit as well with me. ( )

This will be the fourth title of Houndsley and Catina that my elementary library has--this level of reading is so perfect for Kinders and early first graders. When I read the first one aloud to the class, the others get checked out. Houndsley always has a good message and this story deals with jealousy. But of course, Catina reassures Houndsley that he is her best friend.

Another delightful James Howe book. ( )

A brilliant story showing the misunderstandings that can occur in any friendship and how true friends communicate to resolve those disagreements. This is my second Houndsley and Catina book and I must say, I enjoyed this one more than the first! Bravo. A wonderful read to share with your child. ( )

James Howe has a new addition to his charming series of “Houndsley and Catina” books for elementary kids. These are early chapter books with gentle messages about the ups and downs of friendship and feature a dog and cat that are best friends. The newest book is very humorous and introduces Houndsley’s colorful uncle, Uncle Wagster. Wagster is quite a character – charming, loud, and the life of the party. Catina is entranced by his ‘razzle-dazzle’ approach to life and this leaves Houndsley feeling left out and a bit blue. To Houndsley’s credit, he is honest about his feelings and the end of the book comes to a nice resolution as Catina reassures him. A couple quotes from the end: “Uncle Wagster is a like a beautiful butterfly that appears in your garden and makes your world brighter. But then one day he flies off to brighten someone else’s garden.” And “You are like a beautiful butterfly that stays in the garden…” Lovely watercolor illustrations complement the story. ( )

Who, as a kid at least, hasn't worried that your old friend will like your new friend more than they like you? That's what happens to Houndsley when his cousin Wagster comes to visit. Wagster is fun and exciting and has been to exotic places. It's no wonder that Houndsley's friend Catina likes Wagster so much! But Houndsley starts to feel left out and wonders if Catina likes him as much, or even wants to hang out with him anymore. Wagster wisely steps back and gives Houndsley a chance to tell Catina how he feels. Catina reassures Houndsley that they will always be friends.

This is a great book to share with early readers who are going through a similar situation. The pictures are light and colorful, and the characters have surprising depth for such a short book.

Thank you to Candlewick Press and LibraryThing for the advanced copy of this board book!*
*This did not affect my review or rating. ( )