The Werepuppy on Holiday

Hugely successful for her books for older children (such as The Illustrated Mum, The Story of Tracy Beaker and The Suitcase Kid), in The Werepuppy and this worthy successor Wilson demonstrates the ease with which she can capture the imagination of the younger generation. Micky is overjoyed when a much-needed family holiday is planned, but distraught at the news that his faithful canine comrade, Wolfie, will have to spend the week in the Dogs' Home. Wolfie is no ordinary pup but a baby werewolf who is forever in trouble, so his banishment is a relief to all the family except Micky and his doting Granny. But the story doesn't end there: the winning combination of Micky's ingenuity and Wolfie's lust for chocolate toffees ensures that the happy couple are reunited before too long. Not everyone shares Micky's delight at seeing Wolfie's smiling face again at first, but by the end of the book the puppy has even won over Micky's obnoxious sister Marigold (well, almost!) and looks set to return for further adventures. Young readers will rejoice in Wolfie's escapades and revel in despising Micky's dreadful sisters. The overturning of authority by a boy and his dog will strike a chord with every child who has ever had a pet with a dubious reputation. In this female-dominated family Micky and his mate stick together, and together they emerge triumphant, Micky as a hero who stops at nothing for his friend, and Wolfie as his incorrigible, devoted companion. (Kirkus UK)