The sweetly whimsical story of imperious Sloane, canine ruler of all she surveys, is told in catchy, arrhythmic verse, brought to life by vibrant, cartoon-style art, in the Posts’ debut. Pampered and cosseted, beloved by her adoring subjects, and used to being the center of attention, Sloane is unpleasantly surprised when her human parents announce that a new small human is on the way. With uncharacteristic maturity, tempered with classic Sloane attitude, she plans to both teach and torment her “little brother,” allowing his appearance to change her life in positive, fun ways.

The allegorical concept of Sloane simultaneously being a dog, a princess, and an older sister feels geared toward children in the upper ranges of the picture-book age group. The short length and whimsical art will be more to the taste of younger readers, but they’re less likely to be interested in preparing for a younger sibling. Awkward rhymes, the lack of a consistent rhythm, and inclusion of somewhat advanced vocabulary (“Don’t say this very loud, but it’s time for her highness’ bath. She really hates getting wet, so beware of her wrath”) make it a difficult book for reading aloud and unsuited to early readers. The story concludes that the new baby “taught [Sloane] to play fair, care, and share,” but these behaviors are never shown, so the lesson falls flat.

The illustrations have fun pops of color and clever little details. The art style is vaguely reminiscent of cubism and young children may find it challenging to discern exactly what the pictures are meant to portray or understand the juxtaposition of Sloane’s fantasy of riding in a royal carriage with her new reality of riding under a baby carriage. Readers who are old enough to see themselves in adorably spoiled Sloane will best appreciate her response to the new member of the family.

Takeaway: Older picture book readers will get a giggle from the quirky art in this whimsical story about welcoming a new baby.

Great for fans of Jean Van Leeuwen’s Benny and Beautiful Baby Delilah, Chris Van Allsburg.

Production grades
Cover: B+
Design and typography: B
Illustrations: A-
Editing: C
Marketing copy: A