Mia Cassany

Pierre and his dachshund Frankfurt lived happily together, enjoying their meals, their trips to the shops, and reading the newspaper. The only fly in the ointment was Frankfurt's dislike of his name. What could be more stereotypical for a dog like him, than "Frankfurt?" How humiliating, to be named after a sausage! Deciding on a course of action - playing dead every time his hateful name is called - our canine hero eventually gets his message through, and is renamed: Frank!

Originally published in Spain, also as Frankfurt, this fun little picture-book is the second title I have read from author Mia Cassany, following upon her immensely creative Atlas of Imaginary Places. I don't know that this one impressed me quite as much as that earlier book, but it certainly was humorous and entertaining. When Frankfurt gets exasperated, and reflects that "these humans" are "useless," I had to chuckle, thinking of how frustrating it must be for animals (and babies) trying to communicate with people! The illustrations from Mikel Casal are colorful and stylized, with a bold, graphic feeling to them. Recommended to young dog lovers, and to any child who has disliked their name.… (meer)