Pinkerton, Behave! Book Review

One of my back-to-school read aloud choices is the funny picturebook, Pinkerton, Behave! by Steven Kellogg.  The book is celebrating its 35th year with an anniversary edition.  I LOVE Steven Kellogg's character, Pinkerton!  My family even has a dog named after the character. 

Family Dog, Pinkerton

Pinkerton, Behave! has the great Dane trying to follow simple commands without much success.  Pinkerton will jump out the window when told to come or lick a "dummy" burglar when told to get him.  Pinkerton is taken to obedience school where the same commands are given and Pinkerton still misunderstands them.  The instructor of the school is very strict and warns Pinkerton's family that he needs to improve or be kicked out.  Well, the same commands are reviewed and this time ALL the dogs follow Pinkerton's actions!  Oh no!  That night, Pinkerton's skills are put to a test when a burglar comes to the house.  How will Pinkerton save the day?  You have to read the book to find out.

This story is such a great way to introduce students to the three types of reading: read to self, read the pictures, or retell the story.  The illustrations help tell the story, which makes it necessary for students to see the whole book first.  The story also works for predicting because Pinkerton repeats the exact same actions for each command given.  It's a silly book that has students giggling throughout.

Book cover image from http://www.penguin.com/book/pinkerton-behave-by-steven-kellogg/9780803741300