Cute story about a caveboy who desperately wants a pet, but every one that he brings home just isn't suitable for one reason or another.

I liked the colors and illustrations, and I can see how the story could spark discussion/learning opportunities about pet ownership. I can even see how kids would have fun with the "cave language" but I actually found it a little obnoxious. I know it would drive me crazy by the second or third reading.

I'll probably knock this one off my purchase list for my neice's kids' library, but will definitely look at the others that are written and illustrated by Tammmy Sauer and Bob Shea.

Hardcover picture book, borrowed from my public library. ( )

This is a case of a great pairing: Shea does those dinosaur books I like so much, and that makes him perfect to illustrate Sauer's story of a cave boy trying to find the perfect pet. Ignoring the historical inaccuracy of presenting these particular species together*, it makes for a charming story.

Library copy

*As one usually has to do with picture books ( )

Stupid.  I know it's fiction - but will kids realize that just about everything in here is impossibly wrong?  First languages most assuredly weren't stilted and 'primitive.'  Saber-tooth cats weren't 'tigers.'  But the book is not presented as satire.  The supposedly heartwarming story is pretty lame, too.  I've been tired for years of the cliche of the animal that the family can't keep until it saves someone's life.  If there was a good reason not to keep it in the first place, that reason still exists.  Also, just because you can't see the baby bird's parents doesn't mean they're not around.  Do not 'rescue' baby birds!  Actually, the more I write, the more angry I get.  Beyond stupid. ( )

Me Like! ( )

A young boy just wants a pet to have as a friend because he has everything else but his parents get in the way. The pet is too big, someone is allergic, it's not housetrained etc. Readers who have ever had to beg their parents for a pet will relate to our protagonist. Although the language is "cave man speak", in the end Cave Boy proves he can take care of his pets and winds up with many. An enticing read aloud for the 2+ age. ( )