Author/Illustrator: Marika Maijala, translated by Mia Spangenberg
Publisher: Elsewhere Editions, 2023
Age: 3-7
Themes: greyhounds, dogs, freedom
Opening: Rosie races down the track. Her paws hammer the ground.
Summary: (from my library’s catalog) Racing greyhound Rosie escapes the confines of the racetrack and bounds towards freedom.
I picked this book because: (from my review in Indie Next Kids!) A captivating tale of freedom for a racing dog named Rosie, told with beautiful rhythm and the perfect sort of pacing to make it a great read aloud for toddlers and early elementary listeners alike. The illustrations are energetic and fluid, with soft hues and bold strokes, inviting the viewer to run right beside the main character. Sure to delight readers of all ages, leaving a taste for freedom on the tongue!
Resources/activities: Discover more about dog racing both HERE and HERE; discuss pros and cons of the treatment of animals; get out your crayons and pastels and make friends for Rosie.
For more Perfect Picture Book Friday picks with teacher/parent resources, check out the list on Susanna Hill’s blog HERE.
julie rowan-zoch 
I love how it feels like a child with very sophisticated drawing skills created the illustrations. It’s exuberant and fun…like dogs and kids.
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Exactly!
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