Biedrzycki, David. SumoPuppy. David Biedryzcki, Illus. Charlesbridge, 10/2022. [52]pp.
Picture Book. GRADES Preschool – 3. HIGH ADDITIONAL. Trade $18.99. 978-1-62354-301-3.
SumoPuppy is a small half-pug, half-bulldog taken in by a sumo champion and trainer, tasking the dog with catching mice. The story is narrated by SumoKitty, already an accomplished mouse-catcher, who is assigned to train the puppy. The story has subtle humor and a fun ending about heroism and rising above expectations, and Japanese terms are defined. The full-color pencil-and-watercolor illustrations have a cinematic quality with shadows and dramatic close-ups, depicting the setting of modern Japan. This sequel to SumoKitty (2019) stands on its own.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University iSchool