The Other Dog

by Madeleine L'Engle, Christine Davenier (Illustrations)

The family poodle protests at first when the master and mistress bring home a new "dog" to share the household--an inferior breed with no tail and little hair known as Baby.

Genres: Picture Books, Animals, Childrens, Fiction, Humor, Dogs, Family

48 pages, Library Binding

First published February 1, 2001

About the author

Madeleine L'Engle was an American writer of fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and young adult fiction, including A Wrinkle in Time and its sequels: A Wind in the Door, A Swiftly Tilting Planet, Many Waters, and An Acceptable Time. Her works reflect both her Christian faith and her strong interest in modern science.

Reviews

[Hilary · Rating 3 out of 5]

The story and illustrations are nice enough. A dog lives happily with a man and a woman until a baby arrives, why do they need another dog, the dog thinks. Although this was a nice enough story about feeling jealous of a new arrival the end note by the author spoilt the story a bit for me. Why did she feel the need to put boots on her dogs feet to stop her getting dirty feet? Dogs are quite capable of keeping their own feet spotless(she said eventually she gave up the fight)You certainly don't need to use tissues to wipe your dogs rear after they have been to the toilet unless they are unwell and her proud claim that theatre was her dogs first love and she didn't take to having puppies made me feel that she had an usually unnatural dog or this was projection and she didn't enjoy her own children. The author didn't strike me as someone who liked dogs as anything more than a fancy accessory.

[Abigail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Touché L'Engle-Franklin, a witty, urbane poodle, narrates this tale of finding her home invaded by "another dog" - namely, a new baby girl named Jo. At first, Touché cannot figure out why her master and mistress would want another dog: isn't she enough? But slowly, she becomes reconciled to this interloper, despite her obvious deficiencies as a dog, and her inferiority to Touché herself...

Written in the 1940s, and based upon the story of Madeleine L'Engle's own beloved poodle and her adjustment to a new baby in the family, The Other Dog remained unpublished for many years, until finally reaching print in 2001. It was re-released in this new edition, with new cover, earlier this year (2018). I remember reading the book back in 2001 and finding it charming, and I had the same response when picking up this reprint today. This is the original "new baby from the perspective of the family dog" story - think Poor Louie , and others of the same ilk - I feel, and is the best I have seen of the type. Well-written and engaging, it is enhanced by the expressive artwork of French illustrator Christine Davenier. Recommended to L'Engle fans, and to anyone looking for humorous new baby books with a slightly unusual perspective.

[Pam · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a little gem!

[Lauren- The Smile Lines · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to the @kidlitexchange for sharing a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

The Other Dog by @madeleinelengle is perfect for anyone who has a dog and is having a baby! It would be the perfect gift! 🐩 Touchè, the dog, is shocked when another dog is brought into the family! He is confused and tries to prove why it is not necessary in the family! Little does he know this ‘dog’ is actually a baby! The illustrations by are so adorable!! Be sure to read the Author’s Note to learn more about the real story behind this book!

[Candace · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is told by a poodle named Touchè. Touchè tells us about the new dog named Baby. Baby-Jo, as she is affectionately called, wears white cloths called diapers, gets fed several times a day and doesn't have to go out in the rain. Touchè eventually accepts this new dog and believes every household should have two dogs.

This is a rather long story with lengthy paragraphs. It would be a good book to read when introducing a new baby into the family. The illustrations are adorable and expressive. For reading skills, I would suggest second grade because of the paragraphs.

[Dolly · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fascinating story, told from the perspective of a grey poodle, of a new "dog" who joins her family. This new dog gets a lot of attention, wears white cloths called 'diapers' and doesn't have to go outside when it's cold and wet. Of course, the new addition to the family is a baby, named Jo, and eventually the poodle learns to accept her. Demonstrates the frustration, jealousy and surprise when a family grows and the other 'siblings' have to share the affection of the parents.

[Cruse · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for introducing a new baby to the family.

[Kyndra Lemke · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have decided to read through as many of Madeleine L’Engle’s books as possible this year - this was a delightful book to start with. A sassy dogs view of a baby coming into the picture.

[Caitlin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Being a Madeleine L'Engle fan, I guess I just expected too much from this book. The story fell flat, and I can't decide who the intended audience is supposed to be, because its vocabulary is too difficult for an early reader, but the story is too lengthy and dull for a read-aloud.

I'd recommend this to dog-loving parents, I guess.

[Michelle (FabBookReviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Other Dog written by A Wrinkle in Time Newbery Medal winner Madeleine L'Engle and illustrated by prolific artist Christine Davenier (illustrator of Miss Lina's Ballerinas, The Very Fairy Princess series), is a story narrated by L'Engle's poodle Touché. When readers meet the great, refined, proud poodle, Touché L'Engle-Franklin lets us know the she, in fact, wrote this story with the help of an "inferior canine" named Jo. As we delve into the story, we find out that Touché's mistress disappeared for several days and dared to came back home with another dog named Jo (readers see L'Engle cuddling a little baby!). For Touché, this rates as rather silly: dogs are expensive and surely "one dog is enough for any family"! Touché is talented, has acted on stage, is beautiful, loves sitting on laps, has a tail "like a little chrysanthemum", and knows to never go to the bathroom inside the house, so "why another dog?". However, when Jo-dog (as Touché refers to her) starts to grow and explore her world bit by bit, Touché finds that, actually, not all is lost. Yes, Jo-dog requires a lot of looking after, and will never grow a chrysanthemum tail, but Touché enjoys that Jo-dog is a great listener and seems to appreciate her company, so much so that Touché has to admit: "in spite of everything...I am getting very fond of our other dog". In all, dog lovers of any and all ages might just fall in love with Touché's terrific story. Touché's narrative is observant, dry and witty all at once, while Davenier's signature loose yet refined pencil and watercolour style so wonderfully captures Touché's learned manner, the story's overall elegance, and the gently sentimental feel of the story. Be sure to read the lovely forward included in this edition of The Other Dog, written by Charlotte Jones Voiklis, L'Engle's granddaughter and daughter of Jo (Josephine) of the story. It was very surprising to learn that this children's title was not accepted for publication until fifty years after L'Engle first wrote it! There is also a fantastically detailed Author's Note (including sketches!) from Madeleine L'Engle detailing how Touché came into her life, Touché's life with their family, and how much L'Engle and family clearly loved and cared for their furry friends.

I received a copy of this title courtesy of Raincoast Books in exchange for an honest review. All opinions and comments are my own.

[Barbara · Rating 3 out of 5]

Lovers of dogs will enjoy this story, told from the point of view of a pampered pooch, a French poodle named Touche L'Engle-Franklin. The dog is the companion of the famous writer, Madeleine L'Engle, and she relates how hard it was for her to accept the arrival of a new dog, Jo, that her mistress brings into the house. Touche's voice is distinct here, and it is clear that she is a bit confused about there would be any need for anyone or anything else because of how wonderful she herself is. The scenes in which she must go out into the rain while the baby remains indoors and her pride in having bested the baby since she sleeps at the foot of the bed as her parents slumber is palpable, and there are several amusing anecdotes and observations shared here. In the end, though, Touche decides that she doesn't mind sharing her space with someone else whom she has come to love a great deal. The illustrations capture this dog's personality quite well, and readers will feel as though they know her quite well after finishing the book. The end papers even feature various sketches that show Touche in adorable positions, and an Author's Note provides additional background that explains just how important this dog was to the author. There is even a foreword from the author's granddaughter in which she tells about how it came to be written and how fond L'Engle was of cats and dogs. While it might not appeal to everyone or even fans expecting something like A Wrinkle in Time, it is nice to have this slice of life from such a groundbreaking author.

[Alex Baugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Narrated by a poodle named Touché L'Engle-Franklin, this is the story of how a dog regards the arrival of what she believes is another dog into her domain. Of course, the reader knows it's just a new baby named Jo, but Touché is not happy, believing one dog is enough for any family, and that she personally is everything her humans could want. As Touché becomes resigned to her new rival, she does notice that there are differences between the two of them. For instance, the new Jo-dog doesn't go out for walks when she does, she gets fed more frequently, and she has no tail and not much hair. But as the Jo-dog grows bigger, and becomes more interested in Touché, things begin to change and eventually she decides that maybe two dogs in a family might be a good idea after all.

This very tongue-in-cheek story will make anyone who has ever introduced a baby to a previously dog-only home laugh in recognition of dog jealousy. Originally published in 2001, the book has a definite old fashioned feeling. Touché belonged to Madeleine L'Engle's grandmother Madeleine L'Engle (that's right, author of A Wrinkle in Time), who acquired her in 1944, and the watercolor illustrations really capture the nuances of 1940s and 1950s picture books. This is a refreshing look at that old age-old competition associated with sibling rivalry.

[Alyssa DeArman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is about a dog acclimating to his family having a baby and the dog believing it is another dog. When it is first brought home, the dog is confused about why they would need another dog because he is the best dog they could ask for and does everything right. Throughout the book, the dog compares himself to how much better and easier it is to care for him rather than the baby. The dog comes to the conclusion that it is a baby and when it gets bigger, the dog is left alone with the baby more often. The more this happens the more the dog starts to care for the baby and eventually states that every home needs at least two dogs.

A major theme in this book is acceptance and understanding that even when things change, it could be for the better.

Personally, I really thought this book was uplifting. I believe that the story made real-life parallels to an older sibling getting a new baby brother or sister and how they may be struggling with the concept by thinking that maybe they weren’t enough. This can also be compared to a child just going through a big change in their life and how even if it may not feel positive at first, it can be for the best.

I would recommend this book because it can show children that change can be a good thing even if they don’t realize it yet.

[Vickie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Touché LÉngle-Franklin, a poodle, is the main character, as well as narrator of this children's book. He constantly compares his superior attributes to "the other dog", non-stop. He doesn't understand why his owners brought home the other dog and "without warning". Why wasn't he enough? Clearly there is some mistake. Eventually, though, he must come to terms with and resolve his relationship with "the other dog", also know as "baby".

The author adds four pages of notes following the story. The poodle is based on her own dog, who actually performed on stages in New York and that was the dog's name in real life, so it made the story that much more enchanting. I could image that her actual dog may perhaps have had traits such as mentioned in the book. The dog is also mentioned in her biography, Becoming Madeleine.

It is a very humorous story. The illustrations are similar to those in decades past, but it doesn't detract from the story at all, but only adds to the sweetness of it. I don't think I was able to convey these ideas very well, but I do feel that many people, regardless of age, could appreciate and love reading it. I do love it.

[Hannah Parks · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Other Dog," is told from the perspective of a very frou-frou poodle, who is dismayed when his owners bring home a baby, which he refers to as the other dog. The other dog is very strange- he has no fur, he eats different food, and he takes up the owners time and attention, which was previously devoted to the poodle. Despite this, he comes to love the other dog and all the life he has brought into their home.

This book is wonderful. The illustrations are expressionistic, colorful, and full of movement and life. The text uses figurative language and description to give it life, and it is also told from the interesting perspective of a dog. My one complaint about this book is that sometimes the language can be quite advanced for the demographic it is advertised towards.

In the classroom, this book could be used in a lesson on point of view. How would the story differ if it were told by the baby or the parents? Students could also learn about hygiene from the poodle in this story, who loves to be clean and groomed. Personification could also be taught using this book along with others.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Touché is one of a kind. Trained for theatre, her curtain calls were reduced to one because "other actors complained." L'Engle took care of her backstage and ultimately adopted her, taking her to work "like a feather boa."

Touché's puzzlement over the homecoming of "the other dog" is loving rendered and humorously captured. Dog caretakers everywhere must laugh over "I always tell my master and mistress when the telephone or the doorbell rings. No one could be more efficient, more energetic, more conscientious, or louder about this than I am."

L'Engle's own illustrations are included at the end.

This book is terrific fun. I picked it up at the library on a whim for an ROS, and I'll be looking for a copy to own.

[Rose Rosetree · Rating 5 out of 5]

Right from the central premise of this book, we're in for a reality shakeup and literary treat, all Madeleine L'Engle-flavored.

Adapted to her dog's point of view, jealousy rampant regarding "another dog." AKA, the author's baby.

How hilarious this might be to read for any older child who has just been displaced by a new baby.

The dog's hilarious take on diaper's is typical of the wry humor to be found in "The Other Dog."

A LOVELY CONCLUSION TO THIS TALE!

As for the Author's Note? Sooooooo fascinating, especially for those of us who have read "A Wrinkle in Time," etc.

FIVE STARS here, for sure.

Thank you for this masterfully written story, Madeleine L'Engle.
Thanks for the most perfect illustrations, too, Christine Davenier.

[Becky B · Rating 4 out of 5]

Touché the little grey poodle is rather put out that the family decided to get another dog when they already have her. She has the dog jobs of the house nailed down, and she's clearly a superior dog to the new one. Will she ever warm up to the new member of the house?

This is a very humorous look at how a dog might think about a new baby entering the household. It actually made me laugh out loud in some parts. Hand this to dog lovers, and students studying writing voices because L'Engle nailed a dog's voice and perspective with this one. I also like the extra things at the beginning and end that told about L'Engle's inspiration for this story and the real Touché.

[Sandy Brehl · Rating 4 out of 5]

The prologue of this charmer is written by the (very famous) author's adult granddaughter, indicating it was originally written generations ago, and was not accepted for publication at the time, despite the author's extraordinary success with novels for youth. At this time it reads with timeless humor and appeal, along with delightful VOICE, POINT OF VIEW, and a CHARACTER arc that provide valuable mentor text for writers at any age.
The afterward describes the original little poodle that inspired the story.

[Natalie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a humorous book about how a dog feels about the new "dog" that has joined the family. Though the dog feels it is more superior and all that is needed to satisfy the family, progressively the new "dog" grows on him and he concludes that actually two "dogs" is quite perfect.

The humor is is the fact that the other "dog" is a newborn baby. I think this would also be an interesting read for an only child who becomes an older sibling. The transition from being the only child to having to welcome a new baby in the house is quite similar.

[Wendy · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is one of those books that would probably be beloved as a family story/heirloom sort of thing but which doesn't work much beyond that.

Told from the point of view of a dog having to come to terms with a new baby in the family. It's rather wordy for a children's book and kids might not get what is going on at first. Maybe families with furbabies before human babies will relate better to this one than we did.

[Olivia Hoist · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Other Dog by Madeleine L'Engle
11/19/18
5/5
Contemporary Realistic Fiction, Grades 1-3
I had to do an author presentation on Madeleine L'Engle, so I was introduced to a lot of her books. She is an amazing author who uses her dogs in some of her books. I like how this book was told from the dog's perspective, but pertained to lifelike situations. When a baby is born, it takes away from the dog's attention. The jealousy it causes the dog to have is humorous, and I think this book is a great children's read!

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Genre: Modern Fantasy
Grade: K-2

A funny story about a topic some kids can relate to when they gain a new brother or sister in their family. The dog's narration is funny and engaging throughout the book. There is also some persuasive writing when the dog is trying to convince us who is better. What a fun book to share with a child who will be gaining a new sibling or understands what that is like.

[Peacegal · Rating 3 out of 5]

A persnickety poodle must get used to the strange, diaper-wearing "other dog" who has suddenly joined her family. The illustrations are cute, and the story is made more interesting by its telling from the pup's point of view.

However, the constant use of the terms "master and mistress" seemed odd and outdated when this book was published--let alone today. Most of us don't see ourselves as "masters" of our pets anymore--and that's probably a good thing for both pets and people.

[Bonnie Grover · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to @Kidlitexchange for giving me the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own. Chronicle Books is reissuing a popular picture book by Newberry author Madeline L’ Engle. This is a sweet book that deals with the family’s poodle adjusting to a new baby. I loved the idea and the artwork.

[hrh · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delightfully unexpected turn from the prolific and wide-ranging pen of Madeleine L'Engle, who's best known for her "A Wrinkle in Time" series. Eclectic illustrations by Christine Davenier. Includes an Author's Note and author's delicate illustrations of the real stage poodle whose tale is recounted in these pages.

[Allison Tubaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Genre: modern fantasy

Grades: 1-4

Madeleine L’ Engle The Other Dog is a cute story about what it’s like to have a baby around from a dog’s point of view. It shows some similarities in a humorous way. The illustrations are colorful and can keep the children engaged in the story. This book may be helpful to a child who had a younger siblings at home and is still getting used to the idea.

[Robert Shupe · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is beautifully written and illustrated children's book. It is simply about a dog's reaction to a new baby coming into the family.

Taken from the perspective of Toche' the dog, it will likely cause you recall some favorite pets of yours from past and present

It will certainly put a smile on your face.

[Shazza Maddog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Adorable look at a Poodle whose place in the family is not quite threatened but definitely changed by the arrival of an inferior dog type known as a 'baby'. Told from Touche's POV, this is a cute little story about a dog listing the various ways she is superior to Jo and how Touche grows to enjoy having the baby around.

[Anthony · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of an "inferior canine" named Jo, that came to live with a family as told by Touch'e, the number one dog and first to live with the family. A very charming tale of a human baby through the eyes of a dog.