I am a cat person, but even I can get behind the ideas in Be More Dog. It is really simple, actually, because all Caroline Crow is telling us is that we can find our happiness any place we want, you just have to be more dog sometimes to find it, or just go with the flow. Which just means, that sniffing dad’s old boot is happiness (for a dog, even if you think grandma’s cookies are happiness instead), splashing in puddles is happiness, giving a treasure to a loved one and seeing their smile is happiness. In other words, the little and the big things are happiness.
Carols Velez illustrations bring to life Sam the Dog and his boy. They are simple, but colorful and bring a little happiness. We see a modern, diverse family (a single dad, a child being watched by his grandmother) Even if you are a not a big dog person (or a person who likes dogs let alone the size) you might just find yourself rooting for this slobbering mutt, because Sam, well he has a dog’s life and he lives it to the fullest. 
The story is aimed for the young child to about seven or so who feel worried when a parent leaves for the day (that is how the book starts), or has an off, not so happy day, and needs to find their happiness. And even if you do not have a pet of your own, you can follow Sam and the way to becoming more dog.
I read via an online readers copy, but I am planning on looking into the final product when it comes out in October 2023 to see how large it is. It will make a good traditional sized hardcover, or a good paperback. I am not seeing a board book, however.
