Hazel the Handful

What happens when a new baby moves in—and the doted-on “older sibling” is a pampered pooch?

People stop to say, “Oh, what a cutie patootie baby!”
What? Is it not clear? I am the patootie.

Follow the adorable puppy Hazel through a typical day at home, where she rules the roost. Check out the dozens of toys, the nifty stroller, the comfy places to take her (many) naps, the various tasty snacks, and most of all, lots of quality time with her girl, Bea. Together, Hazel and Bea are sensational. Until the baby arrives, that is, and everything changes. Now Hazel isn’t always the center of attention—even Nana barely has time for a cuddle. Things have gone too far! But when Hazel runs off to hide, the family is desperate to find her, and Hazel is reminded just how much she is loved. In this endearing comedy for dog lovers and expanding families from a stellar creative team, there’s room for everyone in the hug circle—and messy new arrivals who drop enticing crumbs turn out to be not so bad after all.

Jamie Michalak is the author of the Dakota Crumb books, illustrated by Kelly Murphy; the Frank and Bean books, illustrated by Bob Kolar; the Joe and Sparky series, illustrated by Frank Remkiewicz; and many other acclaimed titles for young readers. She lives in Rhode Island.

Matt Myers is the illustrator of the Infamous Ratsos chapter book series by Kara LaReau, Lily Leads the Way by Margi Preus, and E-I-E-I-O: How Old MacDonald Got His Farm (with a Little Help from a Hen) by Judy Sierra, as well as many other books for young readers. Matt Myers lives in Charlotte, North Carolina.