The black dog is only as big and scary as you believe it is! Wonderfully detailed illustrations and a mildly scary plot make this really fun to share one-on-one. ( )

The book is setup up be targeted for an older audience, this is referred to by the use of language, vocabulary, illustrations, and the story line of the book. Regardless the book is still fun, exciting, and is something what will be enjoyable to read by children of different ages. ( )

This story is great because the illustrations convey so much emotion. The dark colors at the beginning show the readers the fear the family is feeling, and the warm colors at the end show the comfort of home and family. These stories are great to talk about assumptions, kindness, and fear.

Summary: A large black dog appears in front of a family home and the only one who confronts it is the youngest child.

This story is interesting because while the whole Hope family sees a black dog, getting larger and larger and hiding from it, the youngest member of the family is brave and actually goes outside to greet it. After being chased, Small still isn't afraid. I feel that this story promotes bravery, risk taking, and overcoming fear. ( )