Emmet.

by Leo Politi

This delightful picture book, originally published in 1971, tells the story of Emmet, one of the many stray dogs taken in by old Mr. Winkel—among them, Poupee, Oscar, and Puff. Emmet was always the troublemaker of the lot, escaping from Mr. Winkel's yard to chase the neighborhood cats and snatch toys from small children. He even refused to obey the grocer's sign that clearly said, “No dogs allowed”! Tired of putting up with Emmet's energetic pranks, Mr. Winkel's neighbors are ready to call the dogcatcher when the rascally dog saves the grocer's shop from a fire set by a prowler.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Animals

30 pages, Library Binding

First published January 1, 1971

About the author

Leo Politi was born in California and spent most of his childhood in Italy. He was an artist and children's book author. He was especially drawn toward Mexican themes.

Reviews

[Calista · Rating 4 out of 5]

OMG! I love the artwork in this book. There are some full page spreads of this little piece of the LA city and it’s stunning. They are beautiful with details and this feel of a little neighborhood.

Like other Leo Politi books he talks about taking the dogs to the annual pet service at church during easter, so this is the same setting as his other books with different members of the community.

Emmet, a dog, lives with a man who collects stray dogs. Emmet escapes the yard and he is a nuisance to the community. People throw water on him and scat him away from the grocery store. He likes to cause a ruckus. Well, one night, a villain sets the grocery store on fire and Emmet is the one to alert the town and save them. He becomes the town hero. It’s a fantastic story - artwork and story.

The nephew liked this rebel dog, Emmet. He connected. He gave this 5 stars. The niece thought it was a good book. She gave this 4 stars and she wondered if our dog would do the same thing. I told her our dog would certainly bark loud. He’s very good at that.

[Misbah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Emmet the dog is a nuisance in his neighborhood, everyone can attest to that fact. But one day their opinion changes.
A burglar sets fire to a bakery as he's making off with the money from the register. Emmet sees him and raises the alarm, chasing after him and grabbing his coat. He alerts everyone in time to save the bakery and the baker while also finding a clue that helps solve the case.
From then on, everyone appreciates Emmet.

[Skye · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve read this countless times to my children after hearing my older sister read it to me - she first received it in 1972 for Christmas from her great-grandparents. I get warm fuzzies every single time. Emmet is the best.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet story with fun pictures.