Grogan, John, and Richard Cowdrey. 2007. Bad dog, Marley! New York: HarperCollinsPublishers. ISBN: 9780061171154.

Plot Summary:
A father, mother, and their two young children decide to adopt a rambunctious puppy that they name Marley.  As he grows, Marley begins to cause trouble by destroying household items and making huge messes.  It seems that everything Marley does – even with good intentions – wreaks havoc on the family home.  After tolerating as much as they could, the family decides to give Marley away by placing an ad in the paper.  Unfortunately, nobody who comes to see the dog wants to take him, but that gives Marley the opportunity to prove his worth by saving the baby, Louie.  The family is finally able to praise their lovable canine and decide to keep him.

Critical Analysis:
Author John Grogan adapted his New York Times Bestselling memoir Marley & Me into a lively picture book for ages 3-8.  The writing is not particularly unique or stylistic, but it’s simplicity makes it appropriate for sharing one-on-one or with a group of young children.  Illustrator Richard Cowdrey added rich, vibrant pictures to depict the events realistically and provide some depth to an otherwise typical dog story.

Review Excerpts:
Publisher’s Weekly: “Youngsters familiar with mischievous canines may most appreciate this playful portrait.” – Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information

From the publisher: “Marley is a hit with families and dog lovers everywhere. And Richard Cowdrey’s warmly rendered illustrations bring the story of this rambunctious dog to a whole new audience.”