Short chapters create a well-paced narrative with an appropriate amount of suspense, while Kelly’s plentiful b&w drawings enhance the friendly ambiance. . . . A just-right book for a developing reader.” — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
“It's summer in Louisiana, but eight-year-old Felix insists on buying a threadbare blanket at the thrift store, certain it has a special quality. . . . Felix pops under the blanket as a human boy, but he emerges from the cover as a scruffy canine. . . . The hysterical high jinks happen over the course of one day, and the brisk pace, ample illustrations, comic-strip interludes, and hilarious commentary will appeal to even reluctant readers. . . . A creative canine conundrum packed with humor and heart.” — Booklist
“Woven effectively into this whimsical story are animal facts and insights into how dogs perceive the world; animal lovers like Felix will be pleased. Kelly folds in lessons of empathy and compassion. . . . A charming dog’s tale sure to reward curious readers.” — Kirkus Reviews
“The storyline of this early chapter book is direct and well-contained, with the three major players having distinct personalities and roles to play. . . . Felix and Puppins have a gleeful energy. . . but Felix’s push and pull with Gumbo forms the emotional core. The cat is snobby and patronizing, yet Felix finds that when he’s mean in turn, he feels worse. . . . Kelly gives readers a sympathetic and relatable kid in Felix as he figures out how to stand up for himself without resorting to cruelty.” — Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“This is a fast-paced, humorous tale of friendship and empathy filled with fun and informative interstitial art and graphic panels. . . . [A] charming, lightly magical tale.” — School Library Journal
