Murphy is a kinetic terrier whose acute sensibilities to all the smells and sounds and sights around give him a two-second attention span and an undeniable charm. This frenetic, stream-of-consciousness picture book is told from Murphy’s perspective. Murphy doesn’t even realize his name is simply Murphy, and not “Murphy-Stop-That,” which is how he introduces himself and how he’s always addressed by the humans in his life. Alice Provensen’s romp follows Murphy through the course of a day that is rarely calm and sometimes harrowing (it includes a ride in the dreaded car for a visit to the vet). But it’s always interesting and always entertaining. The illustrations of Murphy are part of the overall appeal, and they perfectly capture the energetic essence of the little dog. (Ages 5–8)

Described as an artist, in word and image (New York Times Book Review), Caldecott Medal winner Provensen portrays the life of Murphy, a terrier who keeps busy on the farm and who is often in trouble. Full color.