Notso Hotso

Anne Fine has been writing for children for many years, garnering several prestigious awards, including the Carnegie Medal and the Whitbread Children's Book Award, along the way. Her novels appeal to children of all ages, from those just starting to read independently, to young teenagers. This is a delightful tale aimed firmly at younger readers. Anthony the dog is suffering; he has developed a disgusting skin complaint, and bits of him are falling off all over the house. His owners aren't exactly overflowing with sympathy, and his mates at the local park just don't want to know him any more. When he is caught examining his bald patches in the best bedroom, his mistress decides enough is enough, and the miserable hound is hauled off to the vet. The outcome of his humiliating experience on the vet's table is both amusing and touching; by the end of the book, Anthony emerges with head (and tail) held high, his street cred restored and his position as neighbourhood top dog in no doubt. Fine is not frightened of tackling sensitive issues head-on; although the story is hilarious, it contains several serious elements. Anthony has to cope with the death of a close friend which happens as a direct result of his own experiences - issues of guilt and responsibility are sensitively raised, but never allowed to get in the way of the story. This is an exhilarating read and Tony Ross's drawings are a delight: parents will enjoy sharing this entertaining tale with their children. As the canine narrator, Anthony uses idiomatic language which will endear him to many young readers. They will also be able to empathize with his excruciating embarrassment - even though Anthony is a dog, his mortification will strike a chord with many children who have suffered similar experiences. (Kirkus UK)