I realize that this will make me sound crazy, because on its surface this is a classic picture book about an adorable dachshund. But the whole story is about how Pretzel falls in love with a lady dog who dislikes him and then he proceeds to give her presents, beg for her affection, and stalk her. There is literally a page that says something about how he had been following and watching her all the time. CREEPY. So he rescues her and she decides he's not so bad and they get married. UGH. Awful. ( )

Cute. ( )

One day in May, five little dachshunds were born. One of them, was Pretzel, who would grow into the world's longest dachshunds, whom everyone admired...except for Greta, the little black dachshund from across the street.

This sweet story, authored by Margret Rey, who is well know for Curious George, is a love story between two dachshunds....and the lengths the Pretzel must go to win Greta's heart.

( )

Huh? The female dog keeps all the gifts Pretzel woos her with, while saying no," and then all of a sudden decides to 'marry' him because he saves her life? She says she's not marrying him because of his length, but it's his length that enables him to save her.

Is this anything like the lessons of choosing a partner that we would prefer our children to learn? Or is it ok, because they are dogs after all, and she is a bitch? Is it ok that he's proud of his shape, of which he has no control, because that is what we breed dogs for, even to the point of amputating tails and ears?

But then, if they're dogs and not people, why are they actually getting married in a church?

And yet, the Reys do have access to fairy dust - this book manages to charm despite the problems. So, here's my recommendation. Don't seek it out, but if you do see a copy at the library and share it with your children, *discuss* it with them.

" ( )

H. A. Rey helped his wife Margaret illustrate the book Pretzel. The dachshund had four other siblings, but Pretzel was special. His body was so long he could wrap up just like a pretzel. Greta another dog dismisses Pretzels feelings for her. One day, Greta fell down a waterless well. Luckily, Pretzel was able to save her. Now, Greta and Pretzel are happily married with 5 children.

Pretzel is born different than his siblings and most people see that as a positive attribute (his body being long). Greta, unfortunately, does not see Pretzel as special. Pretzel did not let his pride get in the way when Greta needed to be saved and he used his long body to save her. So, what Greta did not like about him in the end helped save her. Often, the real world is like this. People judge too quickly by the outer appearance, but do not appreciate how special diversity is. I love the lesson this book teaches and I believe children would catch on to the message being conveyed. ( )