Don't Forget DEXTER!
by Lindsay Ward
Two Lions, January 1, 2018
Fiction * Animals * Dinosaurs
Audience: Ages 4 to 7 years
Amazon * WorldCat
Description of the book:
Introducing Dexter T. Rexter, the toughest, coolest dinosaur ever. At least he likes to think so.
When his best friend, Jack, leaves him behind at the doctor’s office, Dexter T. Rexter panics. First he tries to find Jack. Then he sings their special song. Then he sings their special song even louder. But when Jack still doesn’t appear, Dexter starts to wonder. What if he’s being replaced by another toy? It can’t be—after all, he can STOMP, RAWR, and CHOMP! Right? Right?!
This hilariously neurotic dinosaur will do whatever it takes to get his friend back—even asking the reader’s advice—in this first book of a brand-new series.
Thoughts on the book:
I am always excited for a new book by Lindsay Ward. So, I was particularly excited to get my hands on her latest title.
DON'T FORGET DEXTER! is told from the perspective a a toy dinosaur who has been left behind in a doctor's office. Dexter is quite the character. He is very attached to his young buddy, Jack, who appears to have disappeared. After drawing a picture of Jack and trying to reach the receptionist to see where Jack has gone, he decides to sing his special friendship song.
Dexter has a strong sense of self but there is a subtle tinge of anxiety as he begins to wonder if he was replaced by other toys and the reader can sense panic growing.
Anyone who has spent anytime with a young child with a special toy or blanket will understand the trauma that can easily erupt when the precious item is lost or misplaced. Parents and family members have gone to great lengths to track down a toy or blanket. However, how often do we think about how it might feel from the toy's perspective? Ward captures the emotions with sensitivity and humor. Her trademark cut paper is paired with text written in crayon to emphasize different emotions.
DON'T FORGET DEXTER! will make for a fun read aloud. Pick up a copy of this at a local bookstore or check it out at your community library.
About the author:
Lindsay Ward was inspired to write this book after her husband texted her a photo of a toy dinosaur abandoned at a doctor’s office. The caption read: “Well, they left me here.” Lindsay thought it was so funny that she sat down to write Dexter’s story immediately. She is also the author and illustrator of Brobarians, Henry Finds His Word, and When Blue Met Egg. Her book Please Bring Balloons was also made into a play.
Most days you can find Lindsay writing and sketching at her home in Peninsula, Ohio, where she lives with her family. Learn more about her online at www.LindsayMWard.com or on Twitter: @lindsaymward.
Giveaway:
One lucky winner will receive a copy of DON’T FORGET DEXTER! courtesy of Two Lions (U.S. addresses).