Review by Sharon Brunner
Linda M. Kramer and Carol L. Schultz offer a fun and entertaining story about puppies and dogs in their book “Nibble Nosers Can’t Drive” and portray dogs’ endearing behaviors. The term nibble noser was derived from a dog’s and puppy’s need to smell and chew. As many dog guardians can attest the loss of a nibble noser can be difficult. This book was dedicated to a dog who traveled on the rainbow bridge, Abby. Most dogs at some point like to chew on things and use their noses on a regular basis. I discovered that dogs navigate their environment by smelling and noticing emotions. Smelling speaks volumes to them. Both the author and illustrator were born and raised in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. This humorous children’s book described how dogs believe they need to be in the driver’s seat.
The main theme in the book involved the common behaviors of dogs. Dogs do bury things like bones with a plan of finding them. My husband and I had a dog named Moon who buried food and bones all around our yard. They can act silly by chasing their tails and other cute behaviors. They can make new friends by smelling them. Squirrels seem to get the attention of most dogs and they love water. Dogs can be lazy and sleep the day away while laying in the sun. I haven’t met a dog who does not love tennis balls and dogs usually greet their guardians at the door. Dogs are pack animals so they can be extremely happy when part of their pack returns home. It has been a mystery to me at times when dogs have barked at things I cannot see. I liked Schultz’s pictures portraying dog behaviors, happy and content dogs. Running through the snow and one with a ball in his mouth. Kramer gave very good examples of common dog behaviors.
I recommend this book for its endearing behaviors displayed by the dogs, because of its cute pictures of various canines enjoying typical dog activities, for its relatable concept that dogs do want to be in the driver’s seat and be the center of their pet guardian’s universe and for its candid view of humans and dogs sharing homes and what can be expected as a result of that union. I have been a guardian of four dogs over the past 30 years, I felt it was an endearing how Kramer and Schultz portrayed our canine friends. Children and adults, who enjoy dogs companionship, will find this book entertaining. As a result of volunteering at the Chippewa County Animal Control Shelter for ten years, I share the belief with the author and illustrator of this book that all dogs need to find loving and caring forever homes. Kramer and Schultz brought to life the joy and blessings of having canine friends.
You can buy the books at your local Farmers Market, Iron Mountain , every Saturday thru the end of October,
and Linnea and Kristine’s Gift shop downtown Iron Mountain.
You can also order directly from the authors: lindamarlenekramer@gmail.com clschultz5.cs@gmail.com or
rockywaterart@gmail.com
Title: Nibble Nosers Can’t Drive
Author and Illustrator: Linda M. Kramer and Carol L. Schultz
