While observing all the dogs in the park, Hazel realizes that first impressions are never the whole story of someone's personality.Hazel has things all figured out—she is one
clever girl. So, when she encounters a snarling dog in the park, she knows that dog is
mean. And as her walk continues, she identifies a
sweet dog, a
sad dog, a
naughty dog, and many more. But then something happens that leads Hazel to experience all kinds of different reactions herself, and she takes a second look at the dogs. Soon she sees that dogs—and people!—are not just one thing. We're each our own special mix of all sorts of emotions and behaviors. We're
all that—and more. And what of the snarling dog? A surprise is in store for Hazel and the reader!
On sale: July 8, 2025
Age: 4-8 years
Grade: Preschool - 3
Page count: 40 Pages
ISBN: 9780593857090
Reading level: Lexile: 350L | Fountas/Pinnell: K
Chad Otis received his BFA in design from the University of Washington and then worked with Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, Disney, Mattel, Hasbro, Nintendo, and DreamWorks for over twenty years as an animator, illustrator, and creative director. He now devotes himself to writing and illustrating children’s books. He lives with his wife in Boise, Idaho.
"Young readers and listeners will readily see themselves in Hazel's wide-eyed take on the world. The blocky, digitally manipulated pencil and watercolor illustrations are bright and exuberant, with an exaggerated quality. A child-friendly affirmation that we all contain multitudes." —
Kirkus"The cast of rainbow-colored dogs in all shapes and sizes brings a cheerful humor to the familiar moral about not letting first impressions define the multitudes that go into what makes us human (or canine). Every page is vibrant, with splotchy, watercolor-like textures stamped over trees, grass, and fur in unusual and engaging colors." —
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
