Using the style and format that she did in her initial Why?, Slovenian children's author/artist Lila Prap turns her attention to our canine friends in Doggy Whys (original title: Pasji Zakaji), presenting a great deal of basic information about the species, while also highlighting the diversity of breeds. With each "why?" question answered in a variety of ways - here the silly answers are all given by cats, in a column on the left-hand side of each two-page spread - from nonsensical to factual, the book both entertains and informs. The artwork, in Prap's appealing style, is colorful and attention-grabbing.

In short, it's another picture-book winner from Prap, who came to my attention when her Why? was chosen as one of our November selections, over in the International Children's Book Club to which I belong. I enjoyed that foray into Slovenian children's books so much that I thought I would track down more of the author/artist's work - I now have five more of her books checked out from the library! - and this one did not disappoint. Well designed, well illustrated, and well told, Doggy Whys? combines humor with facts, and is highly recommended to all young dog and animal lovers. I think I may try Prap's Dinosaurs?! next... ( )

A very good book for learning about dogs. It tells about the different breeds as well as why they are and do what they do. ( )

Lila Prap has written another wonderful informational picture book, this time about dogs. Like she often does, Prap begins each double page with a question which she then answers seriously after providing several silly responses. Prap, as always, focuses on information which is great interest to young children and draws illustrations that are just as child-friendly.

“Why Do Dogs Bark?

Dogs bark because they have something to say. A loud, continuous bark warns members of a dog’s family that something is happening---for example, ‘We have a visitor!’ or ‘A car is driving past the house.’ A slightly different bark might mean ‘I’m thirsty!’ or ‘Why have you left me alone?’ ( )