I very much enjoyed Marley's Big Adventure for a few reason. The book's tone is fun-loving and I think children will be very interested in the book. The books point of view is from Marley the dog. Throughout the book we know what Marley is thinking. The author does this so that we can also understands Marley's emotions. For example, when Marley gets put outside for misbehaving he starts howling and thinks, "maybe they don't love me now." This makes the reader feel sorry for Marley because all he wanted to do was play. The author also uses pictures to explain each page. In the beginning of the book there are a few pages that show Marley getting into trouble with the family. For example, the family yells at him for eating pancakes, hanging the baby outside the crib, and taking all of the clothes out of the dresser. The pictures on each page do a very good job of displaying these scenarios. The overall message of the book teaches readers that even though they may misbehave sometimes their family will still love them. ( )

This is a cute story about a family dog that has a very bad day. He begins by waking up his family too soon, hanging the baby over the rail, eating their breakfast, and pulling all thier clothes out of their drawers. The family gets fed up so they put him outside. Marley thinks he is a bad dog so he runs away. While out, he manages to get himself in even more trouble at the local bakery. The family finds Marley and they reunite expressing their love for each other.
Great story about family, forgiveness and acceptance. Colorful pictures and fun illustrations that help tell the story for new readers.
Recommended grades: K-3 ( )

Summary: Marley's Big Adventure was a fun story about a puppy, Marley, who wants to help with everything around the house. Marley tries so hard to help, but he is clumsy and makes a mess which doesn't help. He is then placed outside for his follies and decides to run away. He goes to a baker's shop and messes it up. The family finds Marley there, help the owner clean up, and return home.
Review: A cute short book for a very young reader. The art was nice, the story was also nice. I know we all have had times where we try to help, but a clumsy move can make a mess in place of helping. That has happened to me many times.
Themes: Helping others, taking responsibility, watch your puppy because it will try to run away.

Phonics readers