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Dandy
From popular author Ame Dyckman and rising star Charles Santoso comes the laugh-out-loud story of a father desperate to destroy the dandelion marring his perfectly manicured lawn, and his daughter's fierce attempts to save it. When Daddy spots a solitary weed in his lawn, he's appalled (along with all of his neighborhood friends). But his daughter Sweetie has fallen in love with the beautiful flower, even going so far as to name it Charlotte. Racing against time and the mockery of his friends, Daddy has to find a way to get rid of the errant dandelion without breaking his little girl's heart.
41 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 2, 2019
10 people are currently reading
493 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews
July 11, 2020
This book will kill you with cuteness. It is adorable. The story is simple and somehow rings very true.
The story is set in a yard with a dad and his daughter. The father takes his lawn very seriously. All the other dads do too. One day, a dandelion appears in his yard. Dad is about to wack it down and the other dads in the neighborhood see it too and they are yelling at him to exterminate it, but as dad is about to take it down, his daughter is there, loving it and she names it. Now, the dad can't touch it. It's like a cartoon where everything else is ruined as you focus on this one problem. Daughter seems to always be there to protect the weed. The trouble starts when daughter goes swimming. I love the ending of the story.
The artwork was done digitally and the cute factor is out of sight. I love it. One of the dads is a giraffe, so I'm a happy camper.
I love this book.
The story is set in a yard with a dad and his daughter. The father takes his lawn very seriously. All the other dads do too. One day, a dandelion appears in his yard. Dad is about to wack it down and the other dads in the neighborhood see it too and they are yelling at him to exterminate it, but as dad is about to take it down, his daughter is there, loving it and she names it. Now, the dad can't touch it. It's like a cartoon where everything else is ruined as you focus on this one problem. Daughter seems to always be there to protect the weed. The trouble starts when daughter goes swimming. I love the ending of the story.
The artwork was done digitally and the cute factor is out of sight. I love it. One of the dads is a giraffe, so I'm a happy camper.
I love this book.
April 16, 2019
4 stars!
A bright and colourful children’s book that had us laughing out loud!
Daddy comes out of his house to find a dandelion in the middle of his perfectly manicured lawn. Ready to dig it out, Daddy is stopped by his daughter, Sweetie, who has fallen in love with this flower, naming it Charlotte. Daddy tries to outsmart Sweetie by sneaking out to get rid of the weed, but Sweetie beats him to save Charlotte every time.
My three and five-year-old were in fits of giggles and laughter while flipping these pages. A cute and just-for-fun story with exciting and colourful pages.
Thank you to Hachette Book Group for providing me with a physical copy to read and review with my children!
Dandy is available now!
A bright and colourful children’s book that had us laughing out loud!
Daddy comes out of his house to find a dandelion in the middle of his perfectly manicured lawn. Ready to dig it out, Daddy is stopped by his daughter, Sweetie, who has fallen in love with this flower, naming it Charlotte. Daddy tries to outsmart Sweetie by sneaking out to get rid of the weed, but Sweetie beats him to save Charlotte every time.
My three and five-year-old were in fits of giggles and laughter while flipping these pages. A cute and just-for-fun story with exciting and colourful pages.
Thank you to Hachette Book Group for providing me with a physical copy to read and review with my children!
Dandy is available now!
April 21, 2019
During the Easter Sunday message, our pastor suggested that, in the spirit of making something new happen, the flower of Easter be changed from the lily to the dandelion. At the look of surprise on people's faces, he went on to talk about how the "flower" is nearly impossible to kill - it keeps coming back (resurrection), it's disliked and unappreciated by many, while others find it beautiful. Then I came home and read this amazing picture book and I got a little emotional... The father in the story is one of those dads who's all about his lawn. When he sees a dandelion, he's ready to go for the kill. But before he can get to it, his young daughter falls in love with it. The more she loves this little yellow flower, the more the father sees that in order to make her happy, he's going to have to do something new - even though his friends and neighbors don't understand at all. The message of this book is one that will resonate with readers of all ages - love means that sometimes we have to see things through the eyes of a child and really appreciate the simple beauty that is around us, even if those around us don't see it.
April 9, 2019
This is adorable and it made me laugh out loud. As a dandelion lover, I support this book whole-heartedly.
December 28, 2020
This is pretty stinking cute.
A leonine family's suburban utopia is marred by the appearance of a single dandelion in the yard. *gasp!* But before Daddy can get to it, his daughter Sweetie has already fallen in love with the flower... and even named it. Daddy tries in vain to get rid of Charlotte, but it seems that Sweetie is always around. By the time he finally gets his chance, he's not so sure anymore... because he knows how much Charlotte means to his daughter.
With touches of humour, this sweet little story is relatable to anyone who's ever lived in the suburbs. Even if you're not obsessed with weeds, one of your neighbours probably is. This book shows what happens when that obsession is taken to its logical conclusion... and it isn't pretty (although it is kind of funny).
The illustrations are super cute, and the accompanying text strikes just the right note.
I'd definitely recommend this one to readers looking for books about the father/daughter dynamic, as well as to readers who enjoy seeing anthropomorphized animals do things like mow the lawn.
Quotable moment:
A leonine family's suburban utopia is marred by the appearance of a single dandelion in the yard. *gasp!* But before Daddy can get to it, his daughter Sweetie has already fallen in love with the flower... and even named it. Daddy tries in vain to get rid of Charlotte, but it seems that Sweetie is always around. By the time he finally gets his chance, he's not so sure anymore... because he knows how much Charlotte means to his daughter.
With touches of humour, this sweet little story is relatable to anyone who's ever lived in the suburbs. Even if you're not obsessed with weeds, one of your neighbours probably is. This book shows what happens when that obsession is taken to its logical conclusion... and it isn't pretty (although it is kind of funny).
The illustrations are super cute, and the accompanying text strikes just the right note.
I'd definitely recommend this one to readers looking for books about the father/daughter dynamic, as well as to readers who enjoy seeing anthropomorphized animals do things like mow the lawn.
Quotable moment:
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May 28, 2020Daddy takes pride in two things, his lawn, and his little girl. When Sweetie finds a dandelion, she decides to name it Charlotte and take care of it as if it were her own. Full of repetition that little ones can help with, this is a story that all ages are sure to love. Enjoy this Missouri 2020 Building Block Nominee by checking out a copy on Mymcpl.org or searching for it on Overdrive! – Reviewed by Stephanie at MCPL Reading Rocket
June 2, 2022
I picked out this book because my five-year-old son is currently obsessed with flowers and especially likes Dandelions. We both laughed out loud at this perfectly-paced picture book. The illustrations really bring the story to life and match the fun tone of the story. A great read-aloud for young gardeners.
April 27, 2019
Simply adorable. Not only is this irresistible to fathers like me who have a daughter (now grown, but still!), but I can totally use it to justify the presence of the dandelions currently popping up on my lawn. Win win!
November 16, 2020
With such humorous artwork, we witness a poor Daddy having to choose between his need for a perfect lawn and his love for his daughter. Oh my goodness, this is soooo funny! I can’t wait to share this one with my mom (who has photos of me, as a toddler, blowing dandelion seeds everywhere). The illustrations for this book were done digitally with handmade pencil textures on top.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
November 30, 2022
CUTEST children’s book ever. Anna requested it to be read to her 8 times while at my aunt’s house over Thanksgiving. Will be adding to our home library!
June 5, 2022
Featured in a grandma reads session.
A perfect example of how little girls can wrap their Daddies right 'round that little finger. In this case the Daddy is a macho lion, and he has his friends, all Daddies in their own respective species, and his has his little lioness who has a wish bigger than life. All daughters have those. Somehow it is just expected that Daddies are the ones who make that happen.
She loves a dandelion. Wouldn't normally be a problem except Daddy Lion and his buddies are those who focus on lawn maintenance and control (one imposes control where one can, right?). Dandelions, as in the weed with the perky yellow bloom, that is. Little Lioness introduces Daddy to her friend, and imposes (again, power where / when one can) and extracts an oath of fealty from DaddyO toward her dandelion, and the book marches forth from there.
My group, which is a unique one, currently consists of 9: 8 boys and 1 girl. (!soon we will have another!) As it is, we are all very clear on who is in charge. These are all persons in training. A charming book.
NOTE: I am not unaware of the paradox here between home life and work life. As a woman who has worked for decades, this model is not the one in the workplace. I continue to ponder the difference here, and wonder on the whys. . . .
A perfect example of how little girls can wrap their Daddies right 'round that little finger. In this case the Daddy is a macho lion, and he has his friends, all Daddies in their own respective species, and his has his little lioness who has a wish bigger than life. All daughters have those. Somehow it is just expected that Daddies are the ones who make that happen.
She loves a dandelion. Wouldn't normally be a problem except Daddy Lion and his buddies are those who focus on lawn maintenance and control (one imposes control where one can, right?). Dandelions, as in the weed with the perky yellow bloom, that is. Little Lioness introduces Daddy to her friend, and imposes (again, power where / when one can) and extracts an oath of fealty from DaddyO toward her dandelion, and the book marches forth from there.
My group, which is a unique one, currently consists of 9: 8 boys and 1 girl. (!soon we will have another!) As it is, we are all very clear on who is in charge. These are all persons in training. A charming book.
NOTE: I am not unaware of the paradox here between home life and work life. As a woman who has worked for decades, this model is not the one in the workplace. I continue to ponder the difference here, and wonder on the whys. . . .
June 6, 2019
Oh boy. This book is the best picture book I have read in a very long time. It is humorous (and very accurate about the Daddies and their lawns.) It is heartwarming (especially in regards to how little girls get attached to the most unusual things) and brings so much joy when you see what a parent will do and sacrifice for their little one. Do yourself a favor and read this book. Then buy a copy of it. Then buy a copy of it for every baby shower you attend in the future. Then do yourself a favor and ask your local public library to purchase this book and put it in their collection. No, I have no partnership in this book. Yes, I love Dandy this much to recommend it to EVERYONE.
April 7, 2019
Hilarious! Being the nerd I am, I called my dad to show him too. No shame.
April 23, 2019
Delightful! This may very well be my favorite picture book I've read this year!
March 18, 2021
I actually teared up. This is just too freaking sweet. My heart <3
(perfect for daddies and their little ones)
(perfect for daddies and their little ones)
August 24, 2023
We checked this book out from the library and it immediately became a family favorite. This is a book that the kids love and my husband and I enjoy reading as well. The illustrations are really cute and the writing is fun with a silly story most adults can relate to. We love this book and have even bought it for our friend who won yard of the month. Great book!
June 18, 2023
I LOVED this hilarious book about a father and his sweet daughter and the time a dandelion grew in the father’s immaculately kept lawn. The illustrations are hilarious, the story is sweet, and it has a great message to finish it all up! Definitely a new favorite.
October 16, 2020
What fathers do for daughters.
January 23, 2019
Interest Level: K-3
Do you have a dad who likes to keep your yard in perfect condition? What about a whole neighborhood? This is how the daddy lion and the rest of the neighborhood is... that is until a dandelion (a weed) pops up in daddy lion's yard. As he is rushing out to the yard with the clippers to get rid of it his daughter, Sweetie, has already named it Charlotte and they are best friends. Getting pressure from all the neighbors he tries to get rid of it during reading time, during nap time, and during snack time but Sweetie was always there. When Sweetie goes away to swim lessons this is daddy lions perfect chance to dispose of Charlotte. Will the daddy lion bow to the peer pressure of the neighbors and get rid of it, or will he respect his Sweetie? Read this sweet and hilarious book to find out what happens!!!
Ame Dyckman does it again! This book is going to be one of my top picks for 2019 picture books!!! Ame instills such a sweet and endearing message yet at the same time she will have you rolling with laughter. And I can't even say enough about the illustrations - incredible, breathtaking, magnificent, wonderful, and just so darn precious!! When I say do not miss this book, I mean DO NOT MISS THIS BOOK!!!
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Do you have a dad who likes to keep your yard in perfect condition? What about a whole neighborhood? This is how the daddy lion and the rest of the neighborhood is... that is until a dandelion (a weed) pops up in daddy lion's yard. As he is rushing out to the yard with the clippers to get rid of it his daughter, Sweetie, has already named it Charlotte and they are best friends. Getting pressure from all the neighbors he tries to get rid of it during reading time, during nap time, and during snack time but Sweetie was always there. When Sweetie goes away to swim lessons this is daddy lions perfect chance to dispose of Charlotte. Will the daddy lion bow to the peer pressure of the neighbors and get rid of it, or will he respect his Sweetie? Read this sweet and hilarious book to find out what happens!!!
Ame Dyckman does it again! This book is going to be one of my top picks for 2019 picture books!!! Ame instills such a sweet and endearing message yet at the same time she will have you rolling with laughter. And I can't even say enough about the illustrations - incredible, breathtaking, magnificent, wonderful, and just so darn precious!! When I say do not miss this book, I mean DO NOT MISS THIS BOOK!!!
Follow me:
Blog - Blazer Tales - https://blazertales.com/
Facebook - Laurie’s Library Place - https://www.facebook.com/LauriesLibra...
Instagram - laurieslibrary - https://www.instagram.com/laurieslibr...
Twitter - @laurieevans27 https://twitter.com/laurieevans27?lan...
Goodreads - Laurie Purser - https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/1...
Pinterest - https://www.pinterest.com/auburngirl2...
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCulD...
January 8, 2020
My son and I have been reading Dyckman's books for a couple years now and love Wolfie the Bunny and this book seemed in the same vein as that, so I knew I wanted to read it. It was a very cutesy and understatedly hilarious book about what really matters in life. Sweetie, Daddy's only child, has made a friend who just happens to be a weed named Charlotte that her dad wants to get rid of, which he tries to at every possible opportunity. When his daughter is off at swim practice, him and the other dads finally get the chance for revenge against the weed, only to have it foiled by an adorable drawing of Sweetie and her friend, and he makes a grave mistake. But he more than makes for it in the end. The illustrations by Charles Santoso are excellent and hilarious. Highly recommended for ages 5-9, 5 stars.
April 2, 2019
The interesting part of this book is, while it has Ame D. all over it, at the same time it does not feel like her other books. That, I think, is due to Santos's illustration. They "tame down" her quirkyness. And even though it is nice to see a "daddy/daughter" story, I'm with the original feeling about the dandelion: Charlotte.... I mean the dandelion.... must go (With that said, yes, I played with them, too, as a child, but my family was less than supportive about it.... Nobody wanted their lawns yellow).
With that said, 99.9% of the reading population will most likely love this modern tale.
With that said, 99.9% of the reading population will most likely love this modern tale.
April 26, 2019
This is a sweet story and the pictures are cute. There are lots of nice little details to look at and compare between the opening and closing spreads. So why only 3 stars? I felt like there was something about the art I couldn't put my finger on, and then I read that the pictures were created digitally with hand-drawn pencil textures on top. And, well, they look like you would expect something done that way to look - kind of commercialized and manufactured. Also, the meanness of the neighbors and were a little bit much for me.
January 11, 2019
A fun and heartwarming story about a Dad whose little girl makes friends with the *gasp* weed in his otherwise immaculate front lawn. Pressured by the neighbors to pull it up, he tries again and again to remove it, going to creative and silly lengths to sneak out while his daughter is preoccupied. He fails each time, as his daughter is a fierce protector of her new friend.
The illustrations communicate with the reader at the same pace as the prose and the moral of the story is a soft lob, received joyfully. I can't wait to share this picture book for Father's Day.
The illustrations communicate with the reader at the same pace as the prose and the moral of the story is a soft lob, received joyfully. I can't wait to share this picture book for Father's Day.
January 28, 2020
Hilarious and charming at the same time - this book is a beautiful example of simplicity and structure in storytelling - using spare text for great impact. When Daddy finds a dandelion on his perfect lawn, he knows what to do... except it turns out this pernicious weed is the flower Charlotte, his daughter Sweetie's new friend. Daddy's antics as he tries to get around Sweetie to remove Charlotte are quite funny, and the ending heartwarming.
September 20, 2020
Everyone will love the lively pictures and cute back-and-forth between characters, and parents and storytime leaders will love the extra layer of meaning and message about love and recognizing what's important.
April 7, 2019
Yup. A parent’s love runs deeper than dandelions. Love this one!
April 9, 2019
Oh the things daddies will do for their daughters.... even leave weeds on the lawn.
April 12, 2019
This might be the best and funniest book I have ever read!
November 22, 2019
A new favorite and a good one for all the dad's out there. Reminds me of the Father's Day "Dad's Life" video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DOKuS...
February 11, 2020
Such a cute book about the dandelion problem. It changes your view.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 268 reviews