Lana Lynn and the New Watchdog – written by Rebecca Van Slyke, illustrated by Anca Sandu, Peachtree, 2021. 9781682631966
Rating: 1-5 (5 is an excellent or a Starred review) 5
Format: Hardcover
Genre: Picture books
What did you like about the book? Lana Lynn is a little sheep who discovers the flock will soon have a watchdog to guard them. “He’ll probably need us to train him.” When the new watchdog shows up, unknown to the sheep, at least Lana Lynn, he is a wolf. Shawn asks “Are you sure he is the new watchdog, Lana Lynn?” “Lana Lynn turned to the newcomer. ‘You’re here to take care of the sheep, aren’t you?’ The stranger licked his lips and nodded.” Lana Lynn tries to train the new watchdog to herd the sheep to the pond, but by sunset, the flock was still not at the pond and the wolf was exhausted from trying. The poor wolf just wants to sleep but Lana Lynn is certainly not going to let him. So exhausted is he that he needs propping up with a rake, a broom, a plank and a bucket. He must escape. Fortunately a little puppy shows up the next day to take over…
The digital illustrations, with each sheep outlined in black lines, are blurry/smeary and filled with fun. There are also a couple of precocious chickens…
Anything you did not like about the book? Not a thing
To whom would you recommend this book? Those who enjoyed the intrepid Lana Lynn in the previous book, Lana Lynn Howls at the Moon, are sure to like this one just as much.
Who should buy this book? Public libraries, kindergartens and child-care centers/nursery schools
Where would you shelve it? Picture books
Should we (librarians) put this on the top of our “to read” piles? Perfect for story times.
Reviewer’s Name, Library (or school), City: Katrina Yurenka, Retired Librarian, Contributor ,Youth Services Book Review
Date of Review: December 14, 2021
Youth Services Book Review 
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