Bertie Was A Watchdog

Walton, Rick. Bertie Was A Watchdog. 2002. Cambridge: Candlewick Press.

Summary

In this story we see how a small dog is able to use his big brain to outsmart a robber. Bertie is called a watchdog because he is the size of a wristwatch, not because he is a big scary dog. Bertie uses his brain to trick the robber into barking loudly so that the police are alerted to his house that is being robbed.

Impressions

This is a fun story to read aloud to children. The illustrations are cartoon like and appealing and are done in watercolors. The plot is interesting with a surprise ending. Even though Bertie is small in size he is smart and courageous and is able to do great things. Children will understand and appreciate this subtle message.

Reviews

School Library Journal, 08/01/2002
PreS-Gr 1–Bertie looks as though he couldn't hurt a flea, but a robber who comes to the pup's house finds out differently. Although he can't bite hard or chase quickly or bark loudly, he uses his brain and tricks the bad guy. The humorous watercolor illustrations in warm tones of blue, turquoise, coral, and gold outlined in black ink are arranged in an appealing format with close-up views of the action and large, black type. The whole adds up to an extremely lively book with a subtle message." –Judith Constantinides, formerly at East Baton Rouge Parish Main Library, LA School Library Journal, A Reed Business Information Publication

Kirkus Reviews, 05/01/2002
Brains overcome brawn once again in this laugh-out-loud encounter between a huge, leering burglar and a minuscule canine guardian. Bertie's ferocious grimace and spiked collar fill the first two spreads, but, as the third reveals, he's called a "watch dog" because he's actually about the size of a Rolex." (Picture book. 5-7) Copyright 2003, VNU Business Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved