What do you think?
Rate this book
A Book for Benny
"Stories about going to the library on a rainy day are not new, but this one has a cunning twist... kids will enjoy the playfulness and, no doubt, try reading to their own dogs." —Kirkus Reviews
It’s raining. No problem, because Sam is enjoying her book. Her little dog Benny doesn’t like reading. He wants to play. Sam tries to persuade Benny reading is fun. Would he like to have a different book perhaps? They go to the library together to find the right book for Benny.
A funny and touching picture book about a little girl and her doggy, and about the joy of reading. For everyone ages 4 years and up.
It’s raining. No problem, because Sam is enjoying her book. Her little dog Benny doesn’t like reading. He wants to play. Sam tries to persuade Benny reading is fun. Would he like to have a different book perhaps? They go to the library together to find the right book for Benny.
A funny and touching picture book about a little girl and her doggy, and about the joy of reading. For everyone ages 4 years and up.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published October 16, 2017
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
July 6, 2017
This book is perfect for children who love reading or need a little encouragement to read.
The book starts with the main character Sam, who's trying to read but her little dog Benny keeps interrupting her because it wants to play. So, Sam decides to take Benny to the library to pick up a book it'd be interested in. It looks like a simple quest but soon enough Sam finds out that is not as easy as it sounds.
This is a wonderful book, those who love reading will delight in this children's story. The illustrations are beautiful and it's a creative way of showing how different people, or dogs for that matter, prefer different stories. Again, the illustrations are great and enhance the story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Judith Koppens and Clavis Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this publication in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted on blog
The book starts with the main character Sam, who's trying to read but her little dog Benny keeps interrupting her because it wants to play. So, Sam decides to take Benny to the library to pick up a book it'd be interested in. It looks like a simple quest but soon enough Sam finds out that is not as easy as it sounds.
This is a wonderful book, those who love reading will delight in this children's story. The illustrations are beautiful and it's a creative way of showing how different people, or dogs for that matter, prefer different stories. Again, the illustrations are great and enhance the story.
Thank you to NetGalley, Judith Koppens and Clavis Publishing Group for providing me with a copy of this publication in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted on blog
July 21, 2017
I received this ARC from Netgalley for an honest review.
Sam loves to read, but his dog Benny wants to play. Sam thinks that maybe if he can find a book for Benny, maybe he won't be so lonely. Sam takes Benny to the library, but they won't let him in. Sam leaves Benny outside but rushes to the window with several suggestions before they find the perfect book.
Sam loves to read, but his dog Benny wants to play. Sam thinks that maybe if he can find a book for Benny, maybe he won't be so lonely. Sam takes Benny to the library, but they won't let him in. Sam leaves Benny outside but rushes to the window with several suggestions before they find the perfect book.
June 26, 2017
A cute little book to inspire children to read in a very unusual way. On a rainy day, Sam is enjoying reading her book, but her dog Benny is bored and rather wants to go outside. So Sam takes him to the library to get him his own book and show him that reading can be fun.
My son immediately pointed out that dogs are not allowed at the library (as you can see on the picture), and we were sad to see Benny had to wait outside in the rain. But Sam found a way to let Benny take a look at the books nonetheless. Want to know what book he chose? It had us both laughing out loud.
The illustrations were clear and colorful, not overloaded and with some details to discover (like the 'no dogs' sign). However, we wondered why Benny had a mustache that on some pages made him look like an old walrus.
Another nice little picture book about the joy of reading that stands out for its unusual choice of book 'devourer'...
(Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
My son immediately pointed out that dogs are not allowed at the library (as you can see on the picture), and we were sad to see Benny had to wait outside in the rain. But Sam found a way to let Benny take a look at the books nonetheless. Want to know what book he chose? It had us both laughing out loud.
The illustrations were clear and colorful, not overloaded and with some details to discover (like the 'no dogs' sign). However, we wondered why Benny had a mustache that on some pages made him look like an old walrus.
Another nice little picture book about the joy of reading that stands out for its unusual choice of book 'devourer'...
(Thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of the book, all opinions are my own)
June 22, 2017
Sam plans to stay inside and read, but her dog, Benny, wants to play. Sam wants Benny to enjoy reading as much as she does so decides that he needs a book of his own. Off they head to the library. Unfortunately, Benny is not allowed inside and it is raining. Sam diligently searches for a book that Benny might like. He has no trouble expressing his opinions of her choices through the window. Once she finds a book he likes, reading becomes something he enjoys. The illustrations are wonderful and greatly enhance the story. Benny's emotions and actions are easy to see in them. What a great way to teach that there is a book out there for everyone and we don't all like the same thing. This book would make a great addition to any family, school or public library. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
June 11, 2018
I absolutely adored reading this book to my little sister.
We both found it entertaining and pleasurable.
The pictures were beautifully illustrated with fascinating and wonderful colors. It held my sisters attention and made her laugh (she's five).
I would happily buy this book for any little one to enjoy.
We both found it entertaining and pleasurable.
The pictures were beautifully illustrated with fascinating and wonderful colors. It held my sisters attention and made her laugh (she's five).
I would happily buy this book for any little one to enjoy.
June 26, 2017
This is a wonderful book about the love of books and reading. It shows that you can find the perfect book for anyone.
July 13, 2017
Sam has chosen the perfect activity to do on a dreary rainy day. She picks up her favourite book, curls up on the couch, and starts to read. Benny, her sweet dog, has other ideas. Benny wants to play not sit still on the couch and read an old book. He keeps interrupting her until finally she decides that the very thing Benny needs to calm down is to have his own book to devour (metaphorically, not literally I hope). How ingenious of her!
She puts on her rain gear, snaps a leash on Benny and off they trot to the neighbourhood library. On arrival Benny is refused entrance because he has muddy paws and well let's face it, dogs might just cause havoc inside. Reluctantly Sam ties him outside the building in the downpour and she goes inside to find the ideal book for her beloved canine friend. She chooses a few, takes them to the window to showcase to Benny. He offers his approval... yea or nay... by turning his back on one choice and actually peeing on a tree in another... no those books won't do. Sam doesn't give up she keeps on trying. Do you think he approves of any of the books that she offers him? Yep, he finally does. He shows his enthusiasm for her choice by wagging his tail, licking the window and barking profusely. Just wait until you discover the book that tickles his fancy. It will have you smiling ear-to-ear. It's a perfect doggy read!
The illustrations are bold watercolours, very expressive and animated. The book accentuates the pure joy of reading and will inspire kids to choose reading on rainy days (and sunny ones too!). I love it. I highly recommend this book.
She puts on her rain gear, snaps a leash on Benny and off they trot to the neighbourhood library. On arrival Benny is refused entrance because he has muddy paws and well let's face it, dogs might just cause havoc inside. Reluctantly Sam ties him outside the building in the downpour and she goes inside to find the ideal book for her beloved canine friend. She chooses a few, takes them to the window to showcase to Benny. He offers his approval... yea or nay... by turning his back on one choice and actually peeing on a tree in another... no those books won't do. Sam doesn't give up she keeps on trying. Do you think he approves of any of the books that she offers him? Yep, he finally does. He shows his enthusiasm for her choice by wagging his tail, licking the window and barking profusely. Just wait until you discover the book that tickles his fancy. It will have you smiling ear-to-ear. It's a perfect doggy read!
The illustrations are bold watercolours, very expressive and animated. The book accentuates the pure joy of reading and will inspire kids to choose reading on rainy days (and sunny ones too!). I love it. I highly recommend this book.
June 10, 2018
K-Gr 2-On a rainy day, a young girl named Sam gets pulled from her book by her dog. Thinking that he would benefit from a novel of his own, she decides to take him to the library. Benny doesn’t want a book though, he just wants to play. Despite this, Sam does manage to find something to interest her little blue mustached friend, and both are able to enjoy the rest of their afternoon. A Book for Benny is very straightforward; the story has no unexpected turns, the message about reading is stated right away, the text describes exactly what is happening, and the pictures just depict what is written. Even though it is a solid work, the wording feels fairly stiff; whether this is due to the quality of the translation or the original manuscript is not known. Meijer’s ink and watercolour illustrations are the better half of the formula. The girl’s yellow poncho, and the colourful library brighten up the gloomy day. VERDICT A fairly solid work with a good message about reading.
*reviewed for School Library Journal
*reviewed for School Library Journal
October 29, 2018
Sam likes to read books. On this particular day it happened to be raining. Curling up with a good book would be just perfect on a day like this. There’s just one little problem, her dog Benny wanted to play. In order to convince Benny books were fun Sam took him to the library, so he could choose a book of his own. Unfortunately, no dogs were allowed in the library. So, from a window Sam shared lots of books with Benny. He didn’t seem to like any of them. Finally, in a section of the library where cookbooks were shelved, Sam found a book and Benny jumped and barked and even licked the window. What type of book do you think it was?
This delightful story shares how books and friends are very important. Basic sentence structure along with simple yet colorful illustrations depict the storyline actions. Beginner readers will find that this book is easy and fun to read. Parents and teachers can use this as a tool to teach literacy, friendship and even how to find favorite books on the shelves at the library.
This delightful story shares how books and friends are very important. Basic sentence structure along with simple yet colorful illustrations depict the storyline actions. Beginner readers will find that this book is easy and fun to read. Parents and teachers can use this as a tool to teach literacy, friendship and even how to find favorite books on the shelves at the library.
December 15, 2017
I really wanted to give 5 stars to this book but it did not meet my number 1 rule. If you're gonna portray a dog (or animals in general) it needs to be in a considerate and loving way (I wholeheartedly subscribe to the notion of "I don't care who dies in a movie as long as the dog lives" or adaptations of it).
A book with a dog, check. A book about books, check. Wonderful illustrations, check. A nifty idea/concept for a book, check. A book set in the library, double check.
And then I arrive at page 8 - the librarian says "No dogs in the library" and the drawing compounds the stereotype. Ugh!, pet peeve. But what bothers me the most is that Sam lets Benny out in the rain!! I understand the need for the plot device, but, couldn't she at least put an awning in the building?! This detail really detracts from my enjoyment of the book which is actually really good. So, that's why it gets just 3 when it could have gotten 5.
A book with a dog, check. A book about books, check. Wonderful illustrations, check. A nifty idea/concept for a book, check. A book set in the library, double check.
And then I arrive at page 8 - the librarian says "No dogs in the library" and the drawing compounds the stereotype. Ugh!, pet peeve. But what bothers me the most is that Sam lets Benny out in the rain!! I understand the need for the plot device, but, couldn't she at least put an awning in the building?! This detail really detracts from my enjoyment of the book which is actually really good. So, that's why it gets just 3 when it could have gotten 5.
October 14, 2017
As a bibliophile who shares her living quarters with a dog and three cats, I can relate to this story. Sam is cozily reading her book while it storms outside. But her dog, Benny, won't leave her alone and wants her to pay attention to him. Being an avid reader, Sam figures the solution will be to take Benny on a trip to the library so he can find a book that appeals to him. When the librarian won't allow him inside, she chooses various books and displays them for Benny who is waiting patiently outside. Nothing seems quite right until she finds a book that the dog can sink his teeth into--one about sausage recipes. Originally published in Belgium and Holland, this picture book uses soft colors and images to fill out most of the pages while showing the great lengths that someone who loves dogs and books will go to share the joy of reading with another.
June 22, 2017
This is a wonderful story guaranteed to delight children. Sam plans to stay inside and read, but that doesn't make her pup, Benny, happy. She realizes that Benny needs a book of his own. The fun really begins when Benny isn't allowed in the library but manages to express his opinions and finally make a selection while looking through the window at the options Sam presents. The illustrations are perfect and enhance the story greatly bringing Benny's actions to life. This is a worthwhile addition to any personal or library collection.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 3, 2017
A minor detail but some of the text on each page being larger and bolder really irked me - it seemed unnecessary and inconsistent - I could understand if it was to highlight speech or some other element, but there did not seem to be any pattern to it. Aside from that, the main text is rather on the small side. These issues aside, this was a sweet tale about a little girl going to the library to find a book for her dog Benny. I enjoyed this tale and it seems one that can be read over and over again at bed times.
July 7, 2017
4 stars for this lovely picture book.
This is a charming story about reading, libraries, dogs, and finding just the right book. That 'rainy day' feeling and Sam's enthusiastic desire to find a book for her dog are portrayed beautifully in text and illustration. This book provoked giggles (as to what proved to be the perfect book for Benny, and his reaction to the book about knights) and is a really engaging book; I can imagine it going down very well in nursery/P1 visits to libraries!
I received this ebook free from NetGalley and the publisher Clavis.
This is a charming story about reading, libraries, dogs, and finding just the right book. That 'rainy day' feeling and Sam's enthusiastic desire to find a book for her dog are portrayed beautifully in text and illustration. This book provoked giggles (as to what proved to be the perfect book for Benny, and his reaction to the book about knights) and is a really engaging book; I can imagine it going down very well in nursery/P1 visits to libraries!
I received this ebook free from NetGalley and the publisher Clavis.
September 6, 2019
This book has the cutest and most heartwarming story about a girl and her dog and the joys of libraries and reading. Sam, the little girl exudes so much thoughtfulness and kindness towards her dog. The illustrations of the characters are just gorgeous! I loved seeing their various poses come to life especially the spreads where Sam picks out books and takes it to the window to see her dog's reaction and whether it might be the book he would like to read. The way the illustrator draws how she stands by the window and holds out the book is adorable. This is one book I could read over and over.
June 22, 2017
I am so IN LOVE with this book. Sam just wants to sit and read, but her fur ball Benny wants to play. She is trying to teach him that books are fun, but has to find the right book. It is so adorable and something I would do. She takes book after book to the window until Benny happily picks one out. And now they can read together. A great book for home or story time, or just dog lovers. I will be getting this book for my personal Benny (named Flib and Dali).
June 24, 2017
ARC copy for review! It's cute and to the point....awww. What kind of book would a doggie love and the determination of his mistress trying to find the perfect book for him is something to admire. Guess pet owners can relate in trying to please their pets. I like the illustration felt would appeal to the kids yet the style is sophicated. Liken the artist captured accurate the mood and feel of rainy day.
June 30, 2017
This is an adorable book. Sam is reading, and decides her dog Benny, needs a book too. She bundles up in her yellow raincoat, puts Benny on the leash, and off they go to the library. There, she searches until she find the perfect book for Benny. They return home to read and relax.
What a great message of sharing. It also teaches appropriate rain gear, and how children can select and check out library materials.
August 4, 2020
Cute little rainy day tale about a girl doing what she can to share the joy of reading with her dog! Enjoyed the ending and appreciated the little details, like the dad with his toddler who was checking out a Super Nanny book. Also had to look up what "Boy 7" is since that book title was written pretty clearly on a book spine, and I saw that this book was originally published in the Netherlands (and translated from Dutch).
June 29, 2018
This was a delightful book! I loved that it was about books and reading. Sam wants to read her book one rainy day. But her dog Benny wants to play. Sam decides to go to the library with Benny and find him a book that he would enjoy reading. That way they can enjoy reading together! Sam and Benny are close friends who learn to play together.
April 16, 2023
Love it that this book has a library in the centre (and that the child makes the walk down to the library even though the weather is more conducive to staying curled up at home). A child selecting a book (for the dog, in this case) is not a premise I have come across in a children's book before. It provides fodder for book selection related conversations with your own children.
June 21, 2017
This adorably illustrated book is perfect for any family who love books, dogs, or both! I loved the way the little girl wanted to share her passion for reading with her dog. This book would be a great addition to an elementary classroom.
July 21, 2017
A cute picture book about a girl who likes rainy day reading with her dog. Illustrations by Marja Meijer are excellent and provide a cozy feel to the book. Thanks to NetGalley for providing this ebook for review.
October 23, 2017
This book reminded me so much of my dog. I always think that he really wants to be able to read, and he certainly loves sausage! I also love books and libraries, so this book was particularly fun for me.
September 29, 2017
Screw this book and any other book that treats tying a dog to a bike rack in the rain and making it watch while you fanny about indoors like cute and responsible pet ownership.
November 27, 2017
Read at the NAEYC conference. A child is looking for a book for her pet. Super cute!
February 20, 2018
Ik las dit prentenboek als een voorleesboekje bij het project 'Boekenkaravaan'.
August 28, 2020
Cute book about a girl going to the library for a book for a dog. Silly. Would be a solid one for a rainy day storytime.
December 23, 2020
Rainy day reading is some of the best. A little girl heads for the library to find her dog a book to read too. It's a surprising choice but they're both happy.
April 17, 2021
Leuk prentenboek met een goede boodschap: Het maakt niet uit welk boek je leest, lezen is leuk.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews