It was not so long ago I was lamenting the lack of great illustrated chapter books written by Canadians and it seems like Canadian authors noticed as well since we have been fortunate to have a few new titles to explore. Izzy in the Doghouse by Caroline Adderson and Kelly Collier is a fabulous new illustrated chapter book about friendship, family and a whole lot of love.

Izzy has a whole lot of love in her just bursting to be let loose. Sometimes that love get her in the doghouse with her best friend Zoë. In those “some of the times” Izzy has a tricky time. She is still friends with Zoë but knows she needs time. Izzy’s mom and nanny Rosa, realize that she has a lot of love and that she needs a little outlet for all of that extra love. When they welcome a new puppy Rollo, Izzy learns responsibility and patience.

We really love the voice in this story. There are so many unique descriptions of things that Caroline Adderson employs, really speaking to those new chapter book readers. Things like the “some of the times” and “love at first sight” and “the no-teeth space” are so endearing and so relatable to young readers. I love that this book features a family of three: a mom, a child and a nanny. Also, Izzy is adopted and loves to hear Mom tell her the story of her adoption. It’s so important for readers to have books about all different kinds of families since we know that love makes a family just as much as biology.

Kelly Collier’s illustrations are so fantastic. You get to meet the characters in person right from the first page and you enjoy all of Isabel’s adventures with her though the story and the illustrations. We also really loved the little asides written with some of the illustrations. The Bee and I had many moments of laughter sharing this book together.

We are really looking forward to whatever adventures come next in the Izzy books.