'The best books, reviewed with insight and charm, but without compromise.'
- author Jackie French

Wednesday 19 April 2023

Review: Smarty Pup: JJ and the Giant Panther

Smarty Pup: JJ and the Giant Panther is book two in the bestselling Anh Do's Smarty Pup series illustrated by Anton Emdin.

Like book one (Friends Fur-ever), this book is in fully colour. It's brightness is not just visual, it's a vibrant story as well.

JJ is a genius pup. He's good at just about everything. Plus he's got super hearing, super smell, and is super fast. 

This time around JJ and his special friend Lily are heading off camping and will be learning about bravery. Or at least they will be once Lily and and the other students convince the teacher that JJ deserves to be part of the school trip -- he's one of the class after all, never mind that he's a dog rather than a human.

Although excited about camping, Lily's also a bit nervous. She and dad talk about different kinds of bravery.

At Camp Pinecone Lily and her friends take part in activities like abseiling and rafting, and compete for a bravery award.

Amidst all the fun, JJ sees what he believes is a mysterious giant panther. Now the smallest meow, or rustling sounds from a bush, set JJ to running away. Is it really a panther? Can JJ overcome his fears and be brave? It turns out JJ isn't the only one who is scared. And as for the panther, there's a surprise in store.

Smarty Pup: JJ and the Giant Panther has a fun plot, jokes, and bright and action-packed illustrations. Kids will love the story, and also the page of stickers that are included inside the back cover.

Grab a copy of Smarty Pup: JJ and the Giant Panther for your newly independent readers to enjoy, and look out for future books in the series, too.

Title: Smarty Pup: JJ and the Giant Panther
Author: Anh Do
Illustrator: Anton Emdin
Publisher: Allen & Unwin , $ 15.99
Publication Date: April 2023
Format: Paperback
ISBN: 9781761068720
For ages: 6 - 10
Type: Junior Fiction