Review Blog

Oct 24 2012

A pet isn't just for Christmas compiled by the RSPCA

Random House, 2012. ISBN 978 1 74275 714 8
(Age: 4+) Recommended. Picture book. Christmas. Published as a stocking filler, this lovely little book will achieve its goal of being a neat hand held book to give to all age groups to bring a smile at Christmas. Nearly 50 beautiful photos of animals are paired with a commentary which extols the virtues of looking after a pet when it is given as a gift. In between the many images of dogs, pups, cats and kittens there can be found a picture of a duck, a lizard, several birds, fish, rabbits and the odd guinea pig. All the photos are delightful, showing many of the animals in cute poses, often with movement and sometimes with other animals.
The commentary shows the long term responsibility of owning a pet, reiterating the closeness that an animal can bring to the family. This is a timely book for many children who may be getting a pet for Christmas and need to discuss with their parents exactly what is involved.
Published by Random House in partnership with RSPCA, the royalties from the sale of the book will go directly to the RSPCA to help with their work. It is a salutary reminder that the incident of dumped and abandoned pets rises dramatically after Christmas.
Fran Knight