Alfred the pug looked different than all of the other dogs, and everyone told him he was unlovable. When a Rex moves in on the other side of the fence, Alfred befriends him, but he doesn't want Rex to know how unlovable he is. When Alfred and Rex finally meet and discover that they look the same, both pugs become best friends and never feel unlovable again. ( )

Summary of the Book
Unlovable by Dan Yaccarino is a book about a little dog named Alfred. Alfred is told he is unlovable by the cat, the bird, and the goldfish of the house. He gets picked on by the neighborhood dogs, as well. He doesn't understand why he is unlovable. Alfred gets a new neighbor named Rex and they talk for hours and hours. Alfred doesn't know why but he told Rex he was a Golden Retriever. Rex decides to dig under the fence one day and they meet. Surprisingly, they are both small dogs who are the same breed. They become quick friends and Alfred no longer feels unlovable.

Personal Reaction to the book
This story reminded me of the Ugly Duckling just a modern version. The heart strings were really pulled when even the goldfish said he was unlovable. This was a good, quick read, and the illustrations were just as enjoyable as the story.

Classroom Extension Ideas
1. As a class discuss differences in appearances and use this book to portray how even when your not meaning to be a bully saying mean things is still bullying.
2. Have the class individually create a storyboard to retell the story in pictures. ( )

Alfred the dog felt unlovable because the neighborhood animals told him he was unlovable and made fun of him. When a new dog moves in next door Alfred talks to him through the fence. The other dog lies and tells him he is a golden retriever. The other dog named Rex digs under the fence so they can finally meet. Alfred is scared for Rex to see him because he might see him as unloveable just like everyone else. Alfred is surprised to discover Rex looks just like him! Rex likes Alfred just the way he is and Alfred finally felt lovable. The central message of this book is to stay true to yourself and be proud of who you are.

Not amazing, but charming.  Of course it's easy for even a very young reader/ listener to see that Alfred is actually lovable (after all, his people, though never seen, clearly love him) and the cat and other dogs are just mean.  But we all know children who feel insecure and need a friend to feel validated, and those will probably benefit from this. ( )

This book is a great story for children up to about 8 years of age. It shows the importance of needing a friend.